He went out of sight like a flash.

But a tremendous uproar was heard in the building, and the pounding and thumping of heavy bodies was heard.

Pomp’s cries for help were agonizing.

For a few moments our adventurers were so overcome with horror that they hardly knew how to act or what to say.

‪“My God!” cried Frank Reade, Jr., ‪“Pomp is being killed. Why do we stand here inactive? We must save him!”

‪“Right!” cried Tony Buckden. ‪“Come on, friends! Lively, now!”

No second bidding was needed.

Into the building they rushed.

Some long stairs were encountered. Up these they sprung.

This brought them to a landing above, and into a large chamber.