‘Come on,’ I said sharply. ‘Don’t waste time talking a lot of mush. We’ll be out of this in ten minutes.’
She made an effort, and when she spoke again her voice was calmer.
‘Sorry, Vic, I’m rattled. I’m terrified of being underground like this. I feel shut in and buried.’
‘I know. Now, get hold of yourself. Once you start feeling sorry for yourself, you’re sunk. Come on, kid.’ I linked my arm in hers and we set off again.
The ground sloped steeply and we began to descend into what seemed a black pit.
Suddenly my torch went out.
Paula clung to my arm, stifling a scream.
‘It’s all right. Put yours on,’ I said. ‘Mine was due to fade. It’s a wonder it’s lasted so long.’
She gave me her torch.
‘We’d better hurry, Vic. This won’t last long.’