“Yes, you’ve taught us that,” laughed Snags; “we sha’n’t give you too much leeway.”
Leonard was conducted into the rocky cave, and through the passage past Roake’s door. Then a sudden turn to the right brought them to three descending steps, after which there was a rocky ascending passage some forty feet in length.
Having traversed this, they came to a wider opening, in an obscure corner of which a concealed door was opened. Through this Leonard was led, and found himself in a large apartment of irregular shape, whose walls, ceiling, and floor were of rock. The place was moist, chilly, and gloomy.
“Well, how will this room suit you?” asked Snags.
“I don’t suppose it makes any difference whether it suits me or not,” replied Leonard. “You seem to have the game all in your own hands.”
“Yes, I should say we had. And if you’ve made up your mind to that, it’s all the better for you. Now, boys, this ’ere chap’s my prisoner, and I’d like to see him alone for a few minutes. S’pose you leave us, and keep within calling distance.”
In obedience to this suggestion, Snags’ comrades withdrew, closing the heavy door of the apartment behind them.
Snags drew a revolver from his pocket, set his lantern on the floor, and addressed Leonard. The two were some five yards apart.
“In the first place,” said Snags, “don’t move from your tracks; if you do, I’ll shoot you dead. You’re a wiry chap, and I don’t want the trouble of another tussle with you. In the next place, answer all the questions I ask you, prompt and true. Will you?”
“I probably will,” said Leonard; “though I don’t know of any subject upon which I can give information that will be likely to interest you.”