Just then the cage was drawn out into the full daylight, where it stopped. They heard excited voices about them, then a face peered up under the edge of the cage.
"Hello, out there!" called Steve.
"There are men in the cage. They're alive!" cried a voice.
"Yes; help us out," ordered Rush in a matter-of-fact tone. "Our quarters are somewhat cramped."
"Shove some planking over the shaft," commanded a voice that the boys recognized as belonging to Superintendent Penton. "Be quick about it. Hello, in there!"
"Hello, sir," replied Steve.
"Who are you?"
"I am Steve Rush."
"Are you alone?"
"No; Bob Jarvis and Dominick are with me."