d we will start
at once. The journey before us is a long and a dangerous one: but, as I
believe, it is the only way of escape left open."

The boys set about making the small amount of baggage into five parcels
while Cummings and the Indian were still discussing some point, and when
the conversation was concluded the former said:

"We will start for the sea coast. There is no immediate hurry, for there
is yet at least six hours before the inhabitants will be stirring."

"There must be sentinels on the east as well as the west side," Teddy
suggested.

"True; but if the information brought by Poyor be correct, there will
not be as strict a watch kept. The Indian believes we should try to
force a passage through the swamp, fighting in case of a necessity; but
I prefer that course where the least danger is to be met, even though
the distance be greater."

Neither Neal nor Teddy cared to discuss the matter: they knew that
Cummings was the best judge in such a case, and were well content to
follow his leadership; but Jake did not trust him so implicitly.

"Before we leave here I want to know your plans," he said. "My life as
well as yours and the others, is in danger, and it is no more than right
that I have at least a faint idea of what is to be done."

"You are quite right," Cummings replied mildly. "It is my purpose to
travel toward the east as far as the sea-shore, and from there make our
way to my hut. So far as I can see it is the only practicable course."

"What does the Indian say?"

"He thinks we can go through the swamp even if we have no boat: but, in
my opinion, the danger of contracting the fever is too great."

Jake had the appearance of a man who is about to make some protest, and
Neal whispered to him:

"In such a case as this it is our duty to accept Cummings' view of the
matter. Do not delay now when we all know that every moment is
precious."

"Have it your own way, I won't say another word," the engineer replied
impatiently; "but I think we have followed this man blindly as long as
we should."

Neal paid no attention to the latter portion of this remark, but said as
he turned toward the leader:

"It is all right; we are ready."

"Then follow me, and remember that our lives may pay the forfeit if a
single incautious word is spoken."

Thus speaking he took up one of the packages, looked once more to the
cartridges in his gun, and started down the stairs, the boys and Jake
following, whil