You do have a knack for this sneaky stuff, Jack. You must have been a rogue in a previous incarnation.

Personally, I don't think I'd chance sending in a weak character like a sorc, all alone, and hoping a 25% spell will work before she becomes a pincushion. You were lucky there, for sure.
The caves aren't so bad once you get past the initial guards. It's simple to send one person out, lure the gobbies to the party, and have a few summoned critters waiting.
Nightowl2