"It will be light in an hour or two," observed Alzura cheerfully--"at least light enough for us to find the track again. Let us sit down; it won't be so tiring, and we can't make ourselves any wetter or dirtier. It's a good thing I didn't start on this journey alone; I should be with my provisions now." "It's always pleasanter to have company," said I, shivering, and not noticing the absurdity till Alzura laughed. There was certainly very little pleasure in our position just then. We were wet through, chilled to the marrow, and plastered with mud from head to foot. Our limbs felt horribly cramped, yet we almost feared to stretch them, and the enforced delay was fast diminishing our chances of escape. The dawning light might show us the route, but it would also set the soldiers on our heels. Altogether, I was rather inclined to envy Barriero, sleeping peacefully in his hut. As soon as ever it became light enough, Alzura jumped up, saying, "Where is the pole?" and grasping it, he began trying to touch bottom. He poked long and vigorously in all directions, but without success, till it seemed as if our only plan was to return and give ourselves up. "Yet there must be a way out," said I impatiently. "The track leads here plainly enough, and it wouldn't come to an end just in the middle of the morass." "I shouldn't think so," said Alzura. "I wonder whether they've missed us yet. How old Barriero will grin on seeing us back again!" "We aren't back yet," I replied. "Look at that hump yonder. It seems solid, doesn't it? Lend me the pole. Ah, too short! What d'you think, Alzura?" "It looks all right," said he; "but appearances are often deceptive. Besides, we can't reach it." "We can jump it, perhaps." "Yes," said he thoughtfully, "we might. It's a big risk, though. If it isn't firm ground, the one who jumps will go to his death." "I'll chance it," said L "No, you won't; it's my venture. Stand aside, and give me room for a take-off. Remember me to the others if I go down." "Wait," said I; "there's no need for you to go. We can put it to the test without risking life," and I hastily unslung the packet of provisions which hung over my shoulder. "Bravo, Juan! that is a good dodge. Mind your aim, though!" "All right," and raising the bundle, I swung it carefully to and fro, trying to gauge the distance. Then giving it an upward sweep, I let it go, and we watched breathlessly as it fell plump on the spot. "Firm as a rock," cried Alzura. "Viva! now for the jump, my boy; it's easy enough." "As long as we come down in the proper place. Stand back," and pulling myself together, I took the leap, landing close beside the bundle. This I picked up, and, telling Alzura to throw me the pole, proceeded to investigate. "Is it all right?" he cried softly. "Yes," said I, and stood back while he jumped across. "Caramba!" said he, "that's a nasty bit well over!" and I noticed that his limbs trembled.