Meanwhile, poor Bob was having his own troubles. At the first rough attack of the kidnappers, when he was hauled over the back of the auto, he did not know what had happened. He supposed it was some accident, such as the tunnel caving in or the water suddenly rising.
But when he found himself held by two men, and the bag thrown over his head, he realized that he was a captive, though he did not know why any one would want him.
Holding him between them, Vasco and Dalsett ran back into the bath and up the incline, followed by Noddy and the Mexicans. Berry and Pender had been left in charge of the auto and horses, which were in the first tunnel.
Bob, who had not attempted to struggle after his first involuntary kicking when he was hauled out, decided that his captors were having too easy a time of it. He was by no means a baby, and though he was fat he had considerable muscle.
So he began to beat about with his fists, and to kick with his heavy shoes, in a manner that made it very uncomfortable for Vasco and Dalsett.
"Quit that, you young cub, or I'll hurt you!" exclaimed Vasco.
"Yes, an' I'll do the same!" growled Dalsett, and, recognizing the voice, Bob knew for the first time into whose hands he had fallen.
He did not heed the command to stop struggling, and it was all the two men could do to hold him. Suddenly they laid him down.
"Look here!" exclaimed Dalsett, sitting on Bob to keep him still, "if you want us to tie you up like a steer we're willin' to do it. An' we'll gag you into the bargain. If you quit wigglin' you'll be treated decent."
"Then you take this bag off my head!" demanded Bob, with some spirit.
"I will if you promise to walk an' not make us carry you," promised Dalsett.
"I'll walk until I get a good chance to get away," replied Bob, determined to give no parole.
"Mighty little chance you have of gittin' away," remarked Dalsett, as he removed the sack.
It was as dark as a pocket, and Bob wondered where he was. Soon one of the men came with a lantern, and by the gleam the captive could see he was in the tunnel.
Walking in the midst of his captors, Bob came to the foot of the incline. There he found Noddy, Pender and Bill Berry in the auto. The Mexicans had their horses in readiness for a flight.