They played their parts well. When a more direct question than usual proved embarrassing, they pleaded that they were quite tired out, and begged that they might take a rest, and even pass the night at French Den. As they entered the cave Gordon watched them throw a searching look around, and noticed their surprise at the means of defence, particularly at the little cannon. It is probable that the boys would have been unable to keep up the little drama, had the men not asked to be allowed to lie down, and postpone the story of their adventures until the morning.
"A bed of leaves will do for us," said Rock " but as we don't wish to be in your way, if you have another room — "
"Yes," said Gordon, "we have one we use as a kitchen, and you can stay there till to-morrow."
Rock and his companion passed into the store-room, which they examined with a searching glance, and noted that the door opened on to the river.
In a corner they laid themselves down. They were not alone, for Moko slept there, but they did not think much of him, as they had made up their minds to twist his neck if they found him sleeping with only one eye. At the hour agreed they could open the store-room door, and Walston, who was prowling about the neighbourhood, would soon be master of French Den.
About nine o'clock, when Rock and Forbes were seemingly sound asleep, Moko entered and threw himself down on the bed, ready to give the alarm. Briant and the others remained in the hall; the door of the passage was shut, and Evans and Kate came to them out of their hiding-place. Things had gone exactly as the sailor had foreseen, and he had no doubt that Walston was close at hand, waiting the signal to break in.
"We must be on our guard," said he.
Two hours passed, and Moko was asking himself if Rock and Forbes had not postponed their scheme for another night, when his attention was attracted by a slight noise in the coiner of the cave.
