We were not much troubled when the star began to shake in its shroud. If the rocks should fall, what then? Possibly we should have no more of the terrible life to endure!
The shocks grew worse and worse. One night, as we sat hating beside the fire, a part of the wall fell down. We could see the cold, far stars shining into our house, that house which we had builded so strong! The dreadful breath of cold like steel struck upon our faces!
It was but for one instant. For once I thought quickly. I caught Isabella in my arms and rushed into the tunnel where the rocks were warm. Where Regan went I did not see.
END OF ROY LEE’S JOURNAL.
PART II.
ISABELLA’S CHRONICLE.
CHAPTER VII.
THE TORCH.
I did not know what had happened. I did not see the walls fall down. It was very dark, and some one held my arm. Then I saw the flare of a torch.
I could hear no voice in the commotion, but it was upon Roy Lee’s face that the light of the torch fell. I saw his steel blue eyes in quick search for the cave look swiftly around.
Above our heads the tunnel walls were roofed with trees laid crosswise. These were coated with ice; long icicles depended like white swords, gleaming above our heads.
When the torch expired we should die in darkness!