Back of the fire was a high cliff, topped with cedars, which kept off the wind and made the situation a fairly comfortable one.
"Now we had better come to an understanding," said Dan Baxter, as he warmed his hands.

"We all know what we are out here for, so there is no use in mincing matters." "I understand all I want to know," answered Tom briefly.
"So do I," put in Sam.
"Baxter shall settle with you, and then I'll settle," growled Jasper Grinder.

"I have not forgotten how I was treated at Putnam Hall because of you." "It served you right that you were kicked out," said Sam, without stopping to think twice.
"Ha! you dare to talk to me in this fashion!" roared the former teacher.
"I'll teach you a lesson! Just wait till I find a good switch!" "Hold on Grinder! one at a time," put in Dan Baxter.

"I'll settle with them first, if you please." "They deserve a thorough thrashing," grumbled the irate man.
"Now I want you to tell me the truth," went on Dan Baxter, addressing Tom and Sam.

"Where did you get a map of that treasure?
In the cave on that island ?" "We haven't said we had a map," returned Tom.
"But you must have a map--or something like it." "Whatever we have, it's none of your business, Dan Baxter," broke in Sam.
"Shut up, you little imp! Don't you know you are in my power!" stormed Baxter, in a rage.