That day, and the one which followed, were anxious ones. The water rose steadily, but so slowly that it could scarcely be noticed, on account of being spread over such a large surface. The engineers reported that the strain on the dam was increasing.
Many more people whose houses were nearest to the rising waters began moving out. Appeals for help were sent to nearby towns, and several boats were brought over to be used in case of emergency. Several small gasolene boats also came, and one man offered to bring his steam launch over if the flood continued.
In the meanwhile the people were filled with anxiety. They could do no work, and stood around waiting for what they feared would happen.
Mr. Newton sent off a good account to his paper. That evening he went down to the railroad station. On the last train in came several young men, and a number of boys with them.
“I thought they’d be soon here,” said Mr. Newton to Larry.
“Who are they?”
“Reporters from other New York papers. Now we’ll have to hustle for beats.”
CHAPTER XXXII
THE FLOOD INCREASES
Late that night, after Larry and Mr. Newton had gone to bed, they were awakened by a noise and excitement in the street. The rain had let up a little, and they got out of bed and went to a window.