He carefully let himself down from the ledge to the rock immediately beneath, and began working his way through the canyon to the opening at the break.

His familiarity stood him in as good stead as before, and he reached the place without mishap.

Climbing the steep slope to the higher ground, he sat down for a few minutes' thought.
It was well into the night, and it was useless to attempt to do anything more.

He was as firmly resolved, however, as before not to be outwitted by the ruffians with whom he was dealing.

He would consent to no attempt to pay them a ransom until he knew beyond peradventure that their part of the contract would be fulfilled.
"If they try any crooked work," he muttered, with deadly earnestness, "both of 'em have got to settle with Hank Hazletine." He gave no thought to Jack Dudley, for he took it for granted that he had been able to look out for himself during the day.