"Stand? Why, the pain would go to my very heart if I tried it!" And poor Bob gave another groan.
Dave walked back and got more water, and after another bath the sprained ankle was bound up in some crushed leaves and some linen torn from one of the youth's shirtsleeves. Then they made themselves as comfortable as possible on the rocks, and began to talk over the new turn of affairs.
"Do you think I had better go on alone?" questioned Dave.
"I don't know. Somehow, I don't think we ought to separate."
"I agree, and yet we ought to try to reach the Swallow as soon as possible."
"That's so, too."
"Supposing I try to get over the ravine and to the top of the hill? I won't get out of rifle shot, and it may be I'll be able to spot our ship from the hilltop."
"All right, go ahead. But don't wander too far, or—gracious, look!"
He broke off short and pointed to a tree growing close at hand.
The leaves of the tree had parted slowly, and now from between them appeared the hideous head and shoulders of a monstrous gorilla! The gorilla's eyes were bent upon both boys, and the beast looked as if he meant immediate mischief!