[Illustration: "He slipped over the cliff and was slowly lowered." Page 73.]
By choosing a hiding-place not directly accessible from the sea, the law-breakers put the excise authorities off the scent."
"Isn't it dry here," remarked Phillips. "The dust on the floor is as dry as powder."
"Yes, and you will find that in a few moments our footprints will be wiped out by the wind smoothing over the sand and dust. Did anybody think to bring a candle?"
"I have two, sir," replied Baker.
"Good, lad!" exclaimed Mr Trematon, approvingly. "Quite a display of foresight, eh?"
"No, sir," admitted the Scout, candidly. "They fell out of a parcel as we were carrying the baggage up to the camp last night. I picked them up and put them in my pocket, forgetting all about them till you spoke."
"All the same they will be useful. Give one to Everest, and the two will be sufficient light for us to see our way."
"Are we going to use twine as a guide, sir?" asked Atherton. "I have a ball of it."