Dan was meditating upon the old Indian’s interesting past, when he heard a slight scuffing noise in the passageway.
He listened eagerly. Had help come at last, or might it be White Nose and Eagle Feather returning?
Fearful of the latter, Dan remained silent, the blood coursing fiercely through his arteries.
Distinctly now, he could hear someone at the entranceway of the cave. Abandoning caution, he called:
“Who’s there?”
The answering shout from Mr. Hatfield brought intense relief.
“We’re here, Dan! Be with you in a jiffy!”
Powerful flashlights now illuminated the tunnel, dispelling its gloom. The boy could make out several persons splashing along the slippery rock floor. Help had come! His long siege was at an end.
After that, Dan had no further worries. Mr. Hatfield and Mr. Holloway efficiently took charge. Aided by several of the Cubs from both Den 1 and 2, they carried Old Miquel out into the warm sunshine.
There, Dr. Evans, who had been summoned from town, examined the Indian.