“Then follow me and we shall see if ye are able to stand the test of fire, of water, and of death. If so be ye may prove worthy members of our ancient and secret order. If not ye shall be cast into outer darkness. Advance!”
The skeleton figure turned and walked into the black void. Ned, Bob and Jerry followed, being able to see only a little way into the room by the light in the one where they had donned the bath robes. But, even as they turned, this light went out, and they were left in total darkness, with only the phosphorus glow to guide them.
“Follow me!” came in solemn tones from the skeleton one.
The three walked onward, but there were obstructions in the way, and though the glowing figure in front avoided them, our heroes were not so fortunate. In turn Jerry, Ned and Bob stumbled over something and went down heavily.
“Hang it all!” muttered Ned, rubbing his shins.
“Silence!” came the sharp command. “The path to the Olympian heights is rough, but ye are not worthy if ye fall discouraged. Follow on!”
Those had been no gentle falls that had come to the three chums, but with repressed groans over aching bones and skinned knuckles and knees they went on. The glow in front of them was their only guide, and, for all they really knew, the skeleton was their only companion in that dark room. But Jerry fancied he could hear the breathing of many, and did not doubt that the room was filled with students who were taking part in the initiation.
“Be careful, we may fall again,” whispered Ned. He hoped his voice was not heard, but the glowing figure again commanded:
Hardly had he spoken than the three initiates, who were walking together, arm in arm, suddenly became aware of a void beneath their feet, and a moment later they felt themselves falling. Then they plunged into a tank of icy water, sinking down until it closed over their heads.
Ned, Bob and Jerry were each good swimmers, and instinctively they held their breath as they fell into the water and struck out--but for where they knew not, for all about them was still as black as night, and even the phosphorous glow had vanished.
“Cæsar’s aunt!” spluttered Bob, when he could get his head above water. “What happened?”
“It’s part of the initiation,” said Jerry.