The huge head was thrust against the steel netting, seeking an opening.
“Tare an’ ’ounds!” yelled Barney in terror. “Av it ain’t another wan ov the snakes! Be me sowl, he’s puttin’ his head in at the windy!”
This was a terrifying fact.
The anaconda’s head suddenly was thrust through one of the port-holes.
This chanced to be one of large circumference and the snake’s whole body began to slide into the cage.
Frank Reade, Jr., seized a hatchet and made a blow at the snake.
But the reptile’s head struck him in the breast and knocked him over.
Its keen fangs tore his shirt and lacerated his flesh. When he picked himself up he was alone in the wagon with the snake.
The anaconda’s body was sliding rapidly in through the port-hole. Barney and Pomp and Buckden had fled from the wagon through the rear door.
“Come, Frank, for God’s sake!” cried Buckden, reaching in and pulling Frank toward the door. “Don’t stay there, or you will be killed.”