When Cummings and Poyor finally decided upon the line of march for the following day, the twilight was rapidly deepening into the gloom of night, and the latter lighted the fires, thus making a circle of flame completely around the party.
"Is it really necessary to have such a blaze, or are you indulging in it simply because it has been so long since we dared allow our whereabouts to be known?" Teddy asked, as he sat with his chin on his knees gazing at the burning wood.
"We are guarding against brute enemies. It is said that jaguars are plenty in this section, and there can be no question but snakes abound. These embers, which require only labor to keep alive, will do very much toward saving our small stock of ammunition."
Jake did not appear disposed to join in any conversation since dinner. He had thrown himself on the ground near the foot of a gigantic tree, and, from the expression on his face, Neal fancied he was regretting that they had not succeeded in bringing away any treasure from the Silver City.
"What are you thinking of?" he asked.
"Only figgerin' out what a 'royal excursion this would 'a been if I'd got that image I tried so hard for."
"If you had succeeded in carrying it outside the city we should not be here now," Cummings said gravely. "With that lump of silver added to our load I fancy we would be prisoners at this moment if they allowed us to live so long."
"I reckoned you'd take the disappointment harder, after spendin' so much time gettin' ready for the trip."
"Of what use would it be for me to complain? In view of all that has happened we have been remarkably fortunate in getting away alive, and consequently there is very much to be thankful for."
"Do you think that if I'd obeyed orders right up to the handle anything more could have been done?"