There we were--imprisoned.

Now, Jack, don't you see in all these things a malicious intention?
Ah, yes, believe me, some being hitherto invisible, but not supernatural, as you will persist in thinking, was concealed in the mine.

For some reason, known only to himself, he strove to keep us out of it.

WAS there, did I say?
I feel an inward conviction that he IS there still, and probably prepares some terrible disaster for us.

Even at the risk of my life, Jack, I am resolved to discover him." Harry spoke with an earnestness which strongly impressed his companion.
"Well, Harry," said he, "if I am forced to agree with you in certain points, won't you admit that some kind fairy or brownie, by bringing bread and water to you, was the means of--" "Jack, my friend," interrupted Harry, "it is my belief that the friendly person, whom you will persist in calling a spirit, exists in the mine as certainly as the criminal we speak of, and I mean to seek them both in the most distant recesses of the mine." "But," inquired Jack, "have you any possible clew to guide your search ?" "Perhaps I have.