“Oh! Bess wanted to go up the glacier a little farther. I saw her pointing to a big rock”—
“And of course he went,” added Fred demurely.
Mr. Percival looked worried. His nephew reported that the missing couple were not in sight.
“It’s growing darker every moment,” he remarked anxiously. “I must go and look for them.”
Two strong young fellows who were employed about the hotel went with him. Leaving the jolly group around the fire, we will accompany the relief party. Those who prefer cosiness and warmth may stay behind!
The contrast was sharp, indeed, as Mr. Percival stepped out-of-doors with his two companions.
The sky was filled with black clouds, that rolled down the valley or hung in threatening masses along the lofty mountain slopes.
As they entered the forest they had to step carefully, lest they should stumble on some root or stone, half-hidden in the darkness. Through the boughs of the trees the rain dripped drearily.
They plodded on for over a mile, when they caught sight of a flickering light, appearing and vanishing, like a will-o’-the-wisp.