him. "You will be drenched."

"_Je viens vite--vite_," he called back, and in a few seconds was at her
side.

"_Comment_!" he said. "You are afraid, no?"

"No," said Chris, colouring under his look of inquiry. "But it's horribly
eerie. Where is Cinders?"

A muffled bark from the depths of the cave answered her. Cinders was
obviously exploring on his own account, and believed himself to be on the
track of some quarry.

"Light the lantern--quick!" commanded Chris, her misgivings diverted into
another channel. "We mustn't lose him. Isn't it cold!"

She shivered in her light dress, but turned inwards resolutely.

"_Tenez_!" exclaimed the Frenchman, quick to catch her mood. "I will go
to find the good Cinders. He is not far."

"And leave me!" said Chris quickly.

"_Eh bien_! Let us remain here."

"And leave Cinders!" said Chris.

He smiled and shrugged his shoulders, then stooped without further words
and kindled his lamp.