A startled expression came upon the missionary’s kindly face. The two Scouts followed his gaze upward to the expanse of adobe wall where an ugly, jagged crack had appeared.
Even as they stared in astonishment, the crack widened. Plaster began to fall. They felt the floor tremble beneath them.
“An earth tremor!” Father Francisco announced calmly, grasping the doorway for support. “Quickly! Seek the safety of the street!”
Chapter 6
EARTHQUAKE TREMORS
A second, harder tremor jarred the room, nearly knocking Jack and Ken off their feet.
“This mission is soundly built,” the old missionary said in a quiet voice. “These ancient walls have sustained a dozen severe quakes. But you will feel safer outside.”
The two Scouts were reluctant to leave Father Francisco, who scarcely seemed able to maintain his balance.
“Come with us,” Jack urged, taking his arm.
“No, I must toll the bell. When my people hear the bell, they know that the quake is not a hard one. It reassures them and prevents panic. I must ring it now.”
Painfully, the missionary moved toward the long corridor. Another shock came, knocking a small statue from a niche in the wall. Plaster dust filled the air.