"You did not finish telling me of the occurrence," said Mr. Penton.
Steve related the story of his adventure, the others listening with grave faces as the narrative proceeded.
"Now, tell me how you found me," he said in conclusion.
"Jarvis missed you. But did you not get sight of the man at all?"
"No, sir."
"You do not know whether there was more than one?"
"I do not. I didn't know there was one until he placed his hands against my back and pushed me in. When I came up, after the first plunge, I tried to see who was on the platform, but I neither saw nor heard anyone. I can't understand why he didn't hit me."
"The scoundrel probably wanted it to appear to be an accident. He thought you would not get out of that hole very easily," said Bob.
"Nor should I, in all probability, had it not been for you."