None of the boys knew exactly what it was that lived in the cave.
It was quite common to hear strange growling sounds coming from deep within it. It was probably some wild animal that had made its home in there. Nobody knew for sure. All three of them stood at the entrance. They peered into the dark tunnel as far as they could see, which wasn’t very far. They were debating who should go in first, just to check it out. As none of them were actually volunteering, they decided that the oldest of them should do it. After some hesitation, the boy made his way in slowly, while the others looked on. Gradually he disappeared into the blackness with only his footsteps being heard. A minute or so passed before they heard the growling. Then it stopped, followed by a distant conversation.
After a few minutes the boy re-emerged, inviting them in, as the old man and his dog never minded visitors.