of the ropes of such a
strength, that the ropes and ourselves would almost instantly be fused
into a shapeless mass. See! the ropes are wet, so that the full strength
of the current could, if desired, be turned upon us." And he pulled
forward the ladder and placed it in my hand.

Instinctively I shrank away, saying:

"I have no desire to be electrocuted just yet."

"Well, it's merely one of the many devices we have here for the warm
reception of any enemy," he answered. "The number of bodies yonder are
sufficient proof that any expedition against us must be ill-fated."

But just at that moment a rapid signal was flashed by the sun's rays upon
a mirror, and reading it, he exclaimed in English:

"All is fast above. Come, Scars, old chap, follow me and let me hear your
opinion of my country. Keep your chin raised and don't look down, or you
may turn giddy."

Then, giving directions to Kona to allow only twelve men to swarm the
flimsy ladder at one time, he placed his foot upon the first rung and
commenced the long straight ascent.

As soon as he had climbed a dozen feet I glanced up at the towering crag,
then followed his example.

CHAPTER XVIII.

THE MYSTERIOUS REALM.

SO unsteady was the ladder, straining and springing at every step I took,
that I was compelled to grip its wet cords with all the strength of which
I was capable. It swayed to and fro fearfully, and more than once I
dreaded that I should lose my hold and fall backwards to earth.

Omar above me, lithe and active as a cat, climbed on, chaffing me for my
tardy progress, and now and then halting and mischievously shaking the
ladder to increase my fear. The higher I ascended the more strongly blew
the wind, until it whistled in the thin ropes and blew through my scanty
clothing, chilling my bones. My hands and feet were bruised and sore from
the previous day's descent, nevertheless I thought not of pain, only of
peril. The climb was long and tedious. Even Omar, who had commenced by
running up like a squirrel in his eagerness to gain the land from which
he had so long been absent, was soon compelled to pause and steady
himself, or he would assuredly have been jerked from his insecure
position.

The ten men plodding up after us seemed to be keeping step, causing the
ladder to spring fearfully each time they ascended the next rung. Omar,
himself fearing disaster, at last called to them, but jabbering among
themselves in the highest spirits,