The pistol had been close to Dick's head and the discharge caused the smoke to get into his face, choking and blinding him. Then he received another blow, and for a minute or two knew no more.
"Listen!" cried Tom, as the pistol went off. "Dick must be in trouble! Come on, Sam!"
"Yes, but be careful," was the answer.
"Want me?" asked the old tar, anxiously.
"You had better stay on guard here, for the present," replied Tom.
"Just as you say, messmate."
Tom wormed his way between the rocks and Sam followed. The pistol shot was followed by silence, and the two Rover boys did not know what to make of it.
"Shall I call?" asked Sam.
"Might as well," was Tom's reply, and both called Dick's name as loudly as they could.
"Help! help!" came back faintly.
"We are coming!" yelled Tom, rushing for ward. "Where are you?"
"I am her" was the answer, and then of a sudden all became quiet again, as a hand was placed over Dick's mouth.
With their weapons ready for use, Tom and Sam ran through the cavern. But all was silent,
