He made the effort, and with Chester's assistance, soon stood leaning against one side of the pit. He looked up.
"Quite a ways up there," he said. "How are we going to make it?"
"Think you can climb up on my shoulders, pull yourself out and then lend me a hand?"
"I don't believe so. Guess I can brace myself while you climb up, though."
"Good, we'll try it."
Once more Chester climbed to Hal's shoulder while the latter braced himself against one wall of the pit. He took a firm hold on the edge above and drew himself up with little difficulty. He was about to reach down and lend Hal a hand when he happened to look toward the east.
"Good night!" he exclaimed and disappeared into the pit in a hurry.
"What's the matter?" demanded Hal, who had not overheard his friend's ejaculation.
"Matter!" echoed Chester. "There are about ten millions coming this way on the dead run. The French have retreated!"
"Hm-m-m," said Hal; "and what are we going to do?"