‘It must have been the action of water for ages that has made the floor so smooth,’ said Edgar. ‘How cold it is after the heat we have had! Reminds me of a petrifying cave. I believe if we remained here long enough we should be turned into stone.’
‘I have no desire to be turned into a petrified mummy at present,’ said Will laughing; ‘but you’re right about the cold—I am chilled to the bone.’
‘How much more of this is there, Yacka?’ said Edgar, speaking loud enough for the black, who was some way in front, to hear him.
The sound of his voice echoed through the passage, and gradually died away in the distance.
‘Wait,’ said Yacka. ‘Be careful here.’
They had need of the warning, for they were now treading upon something soft and slimy, and the sensation was not pleasant. They slipped about and made but little progress, and were glad when the ground felt hard and dry again.
The round ball of light at the end was gradually widening, and they could now see more plainly the nature of the passage they were traversing. Looking up to the roof Edgar saw thousands of glittering stars, which flashed and twinkled even with the faint light from the opening.
‘Look, Will,’ he said; ‘how lovely this roof would be if there was more light! They might be diamonds, they sparkle so.’
‘Wish they were,’ replied Will. ‘A few diamonds would help a fellow along—you know in what direction I mean.’
‘Yacka has promised to make us rich. I wonder if he will let us take what we like if there is anything to take?’