A FRIENDLY GHOST Hugh led the way straight into the fissure.

As they proceeded they could see the light ahead growing stronger.

Low sounds, as of voices, also led them onward; and then, upon turning a bend, they came upon a sight that had them all staring with wonder.
It was indeed a cave, and of considerable dimensions.

A wild beast would have delighted in such a den in which to hide from the rigors of winter, but to boys accustomed to the luxuries of home life it would doubtless have few attractions, especially after the novelty of camping-out had worn off in a week's time.
It was a fire that burned which gave the light.

A pile of dry wood, mostly broken branches of dead trees, showed that the occupant of the cave had laid in a supply against a rainy day.
There, sitting with his back against the wall, was their missing comrade K.K.