“I’m sure of it!” gasped Joe, from inside. Then there was another gurgle and Joe said no more because he had received a mouthful of soot.
Those below could hear him scrambling about inside, and, by peering up into the fireplace, they could see the reflection of the flashlight. More soot continued to pour down the chimney. Joe was evidently having a bad time of it.
“Wonder what he’ll find,” speculated Biff.
“Soot,” said Chet.
They waited. Then they heard a muffled cry of dismay.
“What’s the matter?” they shouted.
“I’m stuck! I got up here, but now I can’t get back.” Joe evidently gave a violent lunge for freedom, because an unusually heavy shower of soot followed.
“Come on, fellows! Don’t stand down there doing nothing!” he clamored. “Get me out of this before I smother!”
CHAPTER XIX
Disappointment
Frank Hardy sprang forward.