"Yes, and the space between 'night' and 'miles' refers to the number of miles," added Ralph.
"It is remarkable that we should find evidences, of the work of the Illyas at the extreme western part of the island, when they are living near the eastern border," remarked the Professor.
"I take it," answered Blakely, "that this letter was transmitted to the man here, and was written by some one, and conveyed, in all probability, by this native."
"That is a reasonable supposition. The word[p. 172] 'faithful' may have reference to him," responded the Professor, after some reflection.
"Well, we can do no more than give them a decent burial," said Blakely.
"It will be a difficult task to do that, as we have no tools, and it would be necessary to carry the bones a distance in order to inter them. If the boys will gather up a quantity of stones we can make a covering for them against the wall, within one of the coves."
This suggestion was carried out, and the bones deposited beneath a mound, and after gathering up the various articles they descended the vine ladder and made a hurried trip to the river.
Unity was reached as it was growing dark to learn that two messengers from John had reached them during their absence, detailing the sighting of the Illyas' village, which was estimated to be five miles west of the mountains.
It was singular how this information seemed to supply the missing word in the mysterious message found with the skeleton on the hill. The Professor at once made a copy of the letter, and forwarded it by messenger to John. In the letter he detailed the information of the finding of the message, and he had hopes that they might be able to find some traces of the people mentioned in the letter.
While awaiting the return of Muro, John made a complete examination of the Illyas' village, encircling it to get its full position, and thus enable him to devise the best mode to attack, if it should be found necessary to do so.