“Are there two treasure pools?” asked Jack, puzzled. “This one lying inside the mountain, and the other at the site of the ruined city?”
“No,” Mr. Monahan explained, “the other lake contains little of value. An underground stream connects the two. Occasionally, a bit of treasure washes down into the lower lake. Also, a few trinkets have been offered there as sacrifice to the Sun God.”
“I suppose that explains how we happened to find a single earring.”
“Quite true, Jack. You might dive fifty times again and find nothing. Here, it is a different story. The lake bottom literally is covered with valuable relics of a past civilization.”
“On the contrary, it is quite shallow. By daylight one can see bottom.”
“In that case, can’t the treasure be brought up?” demanded Ken eagerly.
“Because the natives keep guard, you mean?” asked War.
“The pool has its guardians—placed here ages ago by Inca priests.”
“Guardians?” Jack repeated in wonder. “What sort of guardians?”
“Cannibal fish. The waters are infested with them. I assure you they are very old and very vicious. Should anyone fall or dive into the pool, his life would be forfeit.”
Silently the Scouts and Mr. Livingston gazed into the dark waters. Guarded by cannibal fish! Even the thought of it gave them the shivers.
“A few of the smaller, practically harmless fish have found their way to the pool below,” Mr. Monahan went on. “But the guardians of this lake are a different proposition.”
“Is there no way the treasure can be brought to the surface?” inquired Jack reflectively.
“Oh, there are many ways, but all involve preparation and equipment. That was why Captain Carter went to my brother. It was our plan to work quietly and to bring the treasure up before news leaked out what we were about. As you have informed me, Captain Carter worked only for himself.”
“You’re convinced he intends to seize the gold?” Mr. Livingston questioned. He had seated himself with his back to a large rock.
“I am. As for myself, I have no desire to profit, but only to turn over the priceless relics to the government.”
“Discovery of this city with its temple and remarkable treasure should make you famous,” the Scout leader remarked.
“Indeed, that would be my reward. I’ve risked my life to remain here. I feel that Captain Carter is not entitled to any of the gold. He is a cheap adventurer, unscrupulous and grasping!”
