But after that I do not know." "Oh, into Italy," said Chayne, in relief.

So far there was no danger.

The Col du Geant, that great pass between France and Italy across the range of Mont Blanc, was almost a highway.

There would be too many parties abroad amongst its ice seracs on these days of summer for any deed which needed solitude and secrecy.
"When do you expect them back ?" "In five days, monsieur; not before." And at this reply Chayne's fears were all renewed.

For clearly the expedition was not to end with the passage of the Col du Geant.