Appleton, Victor – Tom Swift in the Land of Wonders

“Well, we will sink shafts here and there. If we find carved stones, the remains of ancient pottery and weapons, parts of buildings or building stones, we shall know we are on the right track,” was the answer. “And now that I have shown you the map, and explained how valuable it is, I will put it away again. We shall begin our excavations in the morning.”

“At what point?” asked Tom.

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“At a point I shall indicate after a further consultation of the map. I must see the configuration of the country by daylight to decide. And now let’s get some rest. We have had a hard day.”

The two tents housing the four white members of the Bumper party were close together, and it was decided that the night would be divided into four watches, to guard against possible treachery on the part of the Beecher crowd.

“It seems an unkind precaution to take against a fellow scientist,” said Professor Bumper, “but I can not afford to take chances after what has occurred.”

The others agreed with him, and though standing guard was not pleasant it was done. However the night passed without incident, and then came morning and the excitement of getting breakfast, over which the Indians made merry. They did not like the cold and darkness, and always welcomed the sun, no matter how hot.

“And now,” cried Tom, when the meal was over, “let us begin the work that has brought us here.”

“Yes,” agreed Professor Bumper, “I will consult the map, and start the diggers where I think the city lies, far below the surface. Now, gentlemen, if you will give me your attention — — ”