The natural project was a hunting trip and this was at once decided upon.
What sort of game our explorers were in quest of it is not easy to say. In fact, it might as well be said that their quest was as much one of exploration as quest of game.
They started early one morning and climbed the mountain side.
This was rocky, but fortunately clear of brush or dense chaparral.
Several rabbits were bagged and some birds of beautiful plumage. Then just as they were upon the verge of the crater of an extinct volcano, the stirring events of the day began.
Suddenly Barney, who was skirting the edge of the crater, gave a sharp cry, and as his companions turned, they were horrified to see him suddenly disappear from sight.
“Great heavens!” gasped Frank. “What has become of Barney?”
All rushed to an opening in the ground through which the Celt had disappeared.
As they reached it, a terrific roar came up from below.
It required but a glance for the explorers to perceive a horrible state of affairs.