The boy was writhing with pain and Tom could not make out what had happened.
“Jack! Jack, old fellow, what is it?” he cried.
“I—I don’t know. Something gripped my foot—as I was hurrying back.”
“It’s got hold of it now?”
“Yes.” Jack’s voice was very faint. It was apparent that he was suffering great pain. But he tried to bear up manfully and steady his voice while Tom bent over him.
“Can’t you move?”
“No, I’m caught fast.”
“Let me look. Great Scott, no wonder!”
Tom’s voice was vibrant with sympathy. The next instant he set up a shout.
“Joe! Oh, Joe!”