But Ernest was in none of the rooms, nor could Juba give any account of him.
"Did you walk with him into the interior of the cave, Frank?" he asked.
"Yes, papa."
"Ha, that explains it. Go with me, and tell me just where you went."
The little boy led the way through the vacant apartments till he reached the one through which the light came from above.
The rope was still hanging from the projection, and this explained Ernest's escape. James Fox went up and examined it.
"He must have got out this way," said the outlaw.
"Won't he come back, papa?" said Frank, sadly.
"Yes," said his father, resolutely. "I will bring him back."