A Sticky Situation (Ace Tales Version)

From Introduction: "Latest News. The Exploring Party have made another tour in the Pantry, and have found five new lumps of white sugar, large and in fine condition. In coming back ... they found a lake of treacle. The banks of the lake were blue and white, and looked like China. While tasting the treacle, they had a sad accident: two of their party were engulped...."