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 for, and in little less than half an hour returned with the things, and they all hastened back to the cave, where De Vere and Genung were strolling about the entrance. Hernando led into the cave followed by the others. Inside, Hernando, Reuben and Mike divested themselves of their boots and securely strapping on their feet a pair of rubbers to prevent slipping, were successfully lowered to the platform on which lay all that was left of "Old Ninety-Nine." Mike came last, and as he slid down the incline, clutching the rope, he called, "Schteady, me byes, schteady!" He crept along the shelf, averting his eyes from the pit. Next the plank was lowered, and it required the united efforts of all three to roll the body upon it. At last it was securely fastened, and Reuben was pulled up to assist the other two in hauling the body to the surface. "Kape aninst the wall, mind your noose!" Mike shouted, and though his teeth chattered with terror, he winked at Hernando and said, "Phat's the program, me bye? I'm wid ye phatever it do be, but it's a howlin' boost!"