They were led forward to the verge of the precipice.
“Now I’m going to give ye a chance,” cried Mason. “If ye think ye can make the jump ye have a chance for your life. Cut their bonds, men. Ha, ha, ha! I wouldn’t give much for your chance.”
Two men sprung forward, and with sharp knives cut their bonds.
“Now say yer prayers!” cried Mason. “Ye’ll soon be in Hades.”
The villain laughed again uproariously at his ghastly wit.
But Frank Reade, Jr., conceived of a daring plan at that moment. He whispered to the trapper:
“Bill, we have the use of our hands and feet. It is death anyway. Why not make a fight for it?”
“Kerect! I’m with ye!” replied the trapper. “What’s the move?”
“You dash to the right, and I’ll go to the left.”
“Ready!” yelled Mason. “One——”