One or more had thrown themselves on the ground panting.
The heat increased every minute, and the atmosphere became stifling. The thirst, too, was almost unendurable.
Even James himself was yielding at last to despair, and already the lights were burning more dimly.
But hark! the sound of the dog barking. His voice seemed ever so far away, but every heart was cheered by it.
Again, lads, again! Up with your spades; one more effort.
The men sprang up from the floor of the cave and went to work now with a will.
Nearer and nearer the dog’s anxious barking sounded every minute.
At last, with a joyous cry, Bob burst through, and with him came a welcome rush of pure air.
They were saved!
Is it any wonder that when they found themselves once more out in the jungle, with flowers and foliage all around them and the breath of heaven fanning their faces, James Malone proposed a prayer of thankfulness?