With this extraordinary document a chart was attached, which, while an enigma to the others, seemed to be perfectly clear to Professor Stone.
The letter ended abruptly, and the chart was a hopeless puzzle to the various eyes that gazed curiously at the straggling outlines.
“What do you make of it, Professor?” asked Reuel, who with all his knowledge, was at sea with the chart. “We have been looking for mystery, and we seem to have found it.”
“What do I make of it? Why, that we shall find the treasure and all return home rich,” replied the scholar testily.
“Rubbish!” snorted Charlie with fine scorn.
“How about the sacred crocodile and the serpents? My word, gentlemen, if you find the back door key of the Sphinx’ head, there’s a chance that a warm welcome is awaiting us.”
Charlie’s words met with approval from the others, but the Professor and Reuel said nothing. There was silence for a time, each man drawing at his pipe in silent meditation.
“Well, I’m only travelling for pleasure, so it matters not to me how the rest of you elect to shuffle off this mortal coil, I intend to get some fun out of this thing,” continued Charlie.
There was a shout of laughter from his companions.
“Pleasure!” cried one. “O Lord! You’ve come to the wrong place. This is business, solid business. If we get out with our skins it will be something to be thankful for.”