Yet the Irishman could distinguish quite plainly.
They consisted of hoarse growls and snarling cries like an angry beast.
“Begorra, that’s funny!” muttered Barney. “Phwativer is goin’ on?”
Then he heard what sounded like a distant human cry of distress.
That was enough for Barney.
“Bejabers, I believe that is Misther Frank!” he cried. “Shure I’d never be stayin’ here at all, at all.”
Away sped Barney.
Every moment the sounds became plainer. Then he came upon an astounding sight.
In the centre of the cavern chamber was a man wrapped in the embrace of a huge bear.
Barney recognized the victim at once.