The Wonder Island Boys: The Mysteries of the Caverns

by Roger T. Finlay

This incident made them desirous of quitting the forest by the nearest route, but this was difficult to determine, as there were no elevated hills in sight. In the forenoon of the third day, other animals were sighted, and George, who was in the lead during the first part of the trip, did not have the courage to go ahead very far, and soon after the start was made, John came up and accompanied him, an act entirely voluntary on his part, which increased the astonishment of them all.

It is impossible to account for these remarkable actions of the human mind while in such a state. Did he realize the danger to his friends? Who can answer the riddle?

But they must go on. The forest must be conquered. How far they had to go was a mystery to them. One thing was certain: they were going toward West River, but they were still less than half way. It would have been the part of prudence to have taken the route to the north, through a country which they had twice traversed, and which afforded far better traveling, but it could not be helped now.

The fourth day did not improve their condition in the least. The dense wood was on every side. The inclination of the ground was so slight as to give no indication whether they had reached the summit of the tableland, or were still ascending to a higher level.

In estimating the distance traveled in the four days it could not be possible that they were over fifty miles from the Cataract. To add to their perplexities, Jack began to walk with a perceptible limp. The wound in the shoulder was inflamed, and a rest was necessary.

In this emergency a council was called, and the Professor suggested that some of the party should conduct an exploring expedition on foot to the west, going not to exceed five miles, and then return. But as it was too near night to make the attempt at once, it was agreed that an early start should be made in the morning.

The question now arose, who should go. Neither made a suggestion until Harry ventured this opinion: "I am perfectly willing to take John with me. I am sure he can be trusted. It will be imposing too much of a burden on you," said he, looking at the Professor, "and I am active and strong enough to stand the trip."

This suggestion was acted on, and early in the morning Harry took a quantity of ammunition, and the Professor gave John a similar supply and a couple of the guns, one of which was strapped to his back, similar to the manner in which Harry was equipped. The attention of John was then directed to the forest in the west, and as Harry moved away he followed with a comprehensive glance that gave all of them the greatest relief. Prior to their departure, the yak's wound was examined, and John saw this as well, so that from all indications they would have no reason to have fears on his account.

As usual, their bolos were taken along, and at intervals the trees were blazed on both sides, this action being performed by John with a regularity and precision that astonished Harry.

Traveling under those conditions was not conducive to speed, but they were now trying to find what lay beyond them, and to learn, if possible, how much farther the dense growth existed beyond them. They went on for three hours or more, and still no change, and they stopped to rest.