On they went, now tottering on the verge of some deep gorge, and now scaling a narrow passage between enormous rocks, which reeled as if about to fall upon and crush them.
Meanwhile the air was full of strange noises.
Hissing, roaring and booming, the report of bursting deluges of fire came out from the bosom of the mountain.
The fire spread fast—the sky itself seemed aflame with the warning of impending destruction.
"This is sartinly the most excitin' moment in my life," said Turk, who now gasped at every step. "I'm afraid that even when we git up to the summit where that poor gal is, there won't be any strength left in my bones to help the poor creature!"
"Come on!" answered Harry, in ringing tones. "On! on!"
And on they went, scaling the burning mountain with almost incredible speed.
At one time the view of the forms upon the summit was hidden by an intruding rock.
"Do you see her, now?" Harry anxiously inquired.
"No!" answered Turk, as he vainly endeavored to catch a glimpse of the fire-lighted forms.