"And you're guessing just about right," Bob assured him.
"Do you have any idea as to how far we are from the foot of the hills?" Royce asked.
"Not much, but it's a long way all right, especially on an empty stomach," Bob answered.
"Empty stomach," Jack echoed. "Gee, I could eat raw sidewinder and think it was a fried trout."
"It's too bad," Sue consoled them. "I had some supper last night, so I'm not quite starved, but you must be empty clear down to your toes."
While they had been talking they had been pushing their way toward the South, making as good time as possible. Another hour and the sun was up over the tops of the trees and it began to warm up, although the night had not been cold. Bob had nothing but the sun to guide him, but he was an expert when it came to finding his way through the trackless forest and he had little fear of not being able to find his way out provided their strength held out. That was his main source for worry now. Tramping through the dense woods when one has not eaten for twenty-four hours is no joke and he was beginning to feel a bit weak and he knew that Jack was no stronger than he.
He was leading the way some feet in advance of the others when, suddenly, he drew his revolver and fired.
"Here's some breakfast for us," he cried as he plunged forward and picked up a large rabbit "It'll be a bit flat without salt, but it'll give us strength," he told them.
Fortunately he had a box of matches and they were not long in finding a good place for a fire close by a small stream. There was plenty of dead wood about and while Bob dressed the animal Jack started the fire going and in less than fifteen minutes the rabbit was roasting.
"Wish I had a hook and line," Jack said as he felt through his pockets. "I'll bet there are trout in that brook."