He struggled up with an effort, one hand clutching at his breast.
"Go, Beth!" he gasped. "For God's sake, go!"
Beth stared at him for one short terrible moment as she realized what had happened to him.
"Peter! You—you're——"
"I—I think I'm hurt—a little—it isn't much."
He swayed but she caught him and put an arm around one shoulder, clutching it with the other hand.
"Lean on me," she muttered. "I'm strong enough——"
"No—go, Beth——"
But she put her strength under him and began walking while he staggered on beside her. Sparks and fiery brands rained down upon them, blistering and burning, the hot breath of the furnace drove their breath poisoned back into their lungs and scorched their bodies, but still they remained upright—and by a miracle still moved on.
"To the left," Peter heard dimly, "the swamp is close by."