even the most trivial, and the Apache would turn like lightning, and be
upon him in a flash. Two more steps were taken, and only eight feet
separated the lad and the Indian, and still the latter remained all
unconscious of what was going on. Fred's heart was throbbing violently,
but he retained control of himself. He felt that the critical moment was
close at hand. A slight advance more, and the attempt was to be made.

He grasped the handle of the revolver more firmly than ever, but he raised
his foot for another step, feeling that the distance was still too great.
At this juncture the Indian moved!

He stepped one pace backward directly toward the boy, and he looked up and
away. But not behind him. The glance was a mere casual one. He had heard
nothing, and he expected to see nothing, when he looked off in the manner
mentioned.

The Apache remained standing in this attitude for a minute. Then he
stepped forward and resumed his former position on the edge of the
opening, still clinging to the lasso, as if in constant expectation of
some signal.

During this little episode Fred remained as motionless as if cast in
bronze. His eyes were still centred upon the Indian, and he partially drew
his revolver from the girdle he wore about his body, with the expectation
of using it. But when his foe gave his attention to the cave below, the
lad softly shoved the weapon back in its place, and again raised his foot.

The movement was slow and painful, but it was accomplished successfully.
Only a single step more remained to place him where he wanted to be. That
taken, and one bound was all that he needed to make. Finally, and for the