Finally everything had been arranged and made fast. Each of the two
boys insisted that he should go down first. To solve the dispute,
they cast lots and the risk of testing the rope fell to Ned.
Slipping off his shoes and socks, which he hung about his neck, he
sprang to the ladder. Alan hung over the edge and watched him with
apprehension, but Ned, feeling his way carefully, was soon on the
ground.
His shout was the signal to begin the work of lowering the packs.
And down they came, one after another; provisions, revolvers,
blankets, water bottles, and even the money belt, for Ned had made
himself as light as possible for his descent.
At last it was Alan's turn. The last load had descended, the
lowering line had been released, drawn up and stowed away. The slip
knot was examined anew and then Alan followed Ned down the slender,
fragile swaying rope ladder. When he had reached the ground by
Ned's side and the strain was over, the boys shook hands jubilantly.
"--And now," shouted Ned with a laugh, "last chance! If you want to
go back for a new load say so before it is too late.
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