He had forgotten until now that these mountains are dangerous.

And something strange in the present proceedings, the loneliness of the place and the elfish character of his guide, suddenly warned him to be cautious.
"See here, my lad," he called: "I'll go no farther." Instantly Tato was at his side again, grasping the man's hand in his tiny brown one and searching his face with pleading eyes.
"Ah, signore, you will not fail your friend, when he is so near you and in such great trouble?
See! I who am a stranger and not even his countryman, even I weep for the poor young man, and long to comfort him.
Do you, his friend, refuse him aid because you have fear of the wild mountains and a poor peasant boy ?" Tears really stood in the beautiful brown eyes.

They rolled down his cheeks, as with both hands he pressed that of Uncle John and urged him gently forward.
"Oh, well; lead on, Tato.

I'll see the other side of your tunnel, anyhow.

But if you play me tricks, my lad--" He paused, for a wonderful vision had opened before him.