The night wore on.
Usually Pomp would come on duty to relieve him before the morning hour. But this night Barney had agreed to keep the full watch, if Pomp would do the same the next night, giving each a chance for a full night’s sleep.
Toward morning Barney relaxed his vigilance and sat in the cabin doorway, communing with his thoughts. It was just daylight when he heard a movement below.
He saw Frank Reade, Jr., cross the cabin.
Instantly he cried:
“Och hone, Misther Frank, shure I’ve a surproise for ye. The lake has gone intoirely, sor!”
This assertion created a sensation.
CHAPTER VII.
A STARTLING SURPRISE.
Frank gave an exclamation and started for the stairs.
“What is that you say, Barney?” he cried.