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Rh know them better than these fellows do, so I could explore freely, and keep out of their sight. They didn't know that there was a second entrance to this place, but I did, and I made for it, when I couldn't find you in some of the other caves where I looked. And, sure enough, here you were."

"Well, we can't thank you enough," said Mr. Parker. "But you say there is a big storm coming?"

"One of the biggest that's been around these parts in some time," replied Bill.

"Then perhaps the mountain will be destroyed," went on the scientist, as calmly as if he had remarked that it might rain.

"I hope nothing like that happens until we get away," spoke Mr. Damon, fervently.

"What had we better do?" inquired Tom.

"Get away, unless you want to discover some more of their secrets," advised Bill. "Those fellows are planning something, but I can't find out what it is. They are suspicious of me, I think. But they are up to something, and I believe, it would be best for you to leave while you have the chance. It may not be healthy to stay. That's why I did my best to untie you."

"We appreciate what you have done,"