On rushed the auto, straight toward the dangerous turn in the road. Paul, who had risen to his feet, was talking vigorously to Ruth and Alice, as called for in the scenario. Now and then he would look back, as though to see if the other car was coming.
Suddenly, as the auto was dashing down hill, there came a snap as if some metal part had broken, and the car's speed was quickly increased.
"What is it? Oh, what has happened?" cried Ruth, springing to her feet. But she was at once tossed back on the seat, owing to the swaying of the car, which was going very fast.
"Something's broken!" cried Paul.
"Yes, the foot brake. But I have the emergency one still!" the chauffeur yelled.
"Is there any danger? Shall we jump?" demanded Alice.
"No! Sit still!" the chauffeur cried. "I'll stop her in time, I think."
It was evident the car was beyond control. There was no need of pretending this.
"Look out!" warned Russ, who in his excitement did not forget to work the camera.
"Stop! Stop!" yelled Mr. Pertell. "You're going too far—you'll go over the cliff!"