The guide replied that, as Mr. Holton had said, perhaps they had wandered farther away than they had intended and were forced to spend the night away. Of course, he went on, tragedy might have come upon them, but he doubted this very much. The Tuaregs who inhabited this region were friendly to strangers, showing excellent hospitality. And both Dr. Kirshner and Joe he considered able to take care of themselves. He finished by saying that, through his guiding numerous expeditions into the Sahara, he believed himself capable of judging a true explorer. When Fekmah translated this to the Americans, they were much relieved. Especially was Mr. Lewis hopeful. He had confidence in Joe and believed him equal to taking care of many tight situations. Notwithstanding this, there was little sleep for any of them that night. When at last the sun began to peep through the distant mountains they were up ready for action. "We've got to find them today," said Bob, gritting his teeth. "We will, if they are anywhere around here," Mr. Lewis added. "Let's hurry and have breakfast." As soon as the meal was over, they again started out on the search, this time taking Tishmak and leaving Fekmah. The latter thought this the best procedure, as the guide could render more assistance in searching the mountains. Taking the opposite direction from the one they followed the day before, the explorers rode off, bidding warm farewells to Fekmah. For several miles they rode over the smooth surface of a dry river bed. Then they turned and followed a path around a small mountain. "Wonder how this path got here?" said Joe, as they plodded up the hill. "Wasn't made by nature," concluded Mr. Holton, observing the regularity that was persistent with every step. He resolved to use his limited knowledge of the native language and inquired of Tishmak, for surely the guide would know. When finally the latter understood, he replied that the lane had been made by Tuaregs who inhabited this region. Perhaps the path would lead them to a village. But the searchers trudged on around the hill without seeing any signs of natives. However, they finally broke away from the narrow way and emerged on level country. They were now on a high plateau, with towering peaks on all sides of them. As far as the explorers could see, there were no breaks or ravines anywhere about. Rifles were discharged at intervals, and hoarse shouts often rent the air. At every few steps the searchers stopped to look about, almost expecting eventually to find the lost ones nearer than they thought. Once Bob thought he heard footsteps, but several minutes of listening convinced them that no one was about. Perhaps it had been his imagination. "Sounded like someone was coming toward us," the youth said. "But I guess I just thought so." "We'll have to keep our ears and eyes wide open," Mr. Lewis reminded them. "If Joe and Dr. Kirshner are anywhere around here, it might be possible to hear them."