“You get on my back,” said Nick.
But the deadly fumes had already weakened the detectives so that it was impossible for them to continue their search for an exit.
“Slip off your coat, wrap it around your head, and get down on your knees, your face to the floor.”
Nick made the suggestions in a quick voice, at the same time carrying them into effect himself.
In this manner a temporary relief was obtained.
The foulest air lay near the roof.
It would be only a question of time, however, until every particle of air in the chamber would be too deadly to sustain life.
The light was still burning, and Nick, with an awkward movement, turned the ray upon his companion.
Chick had straightened out along the floor, and was lying still and motionless.
“I guess it’s all day with us,” thought Nick. “To think that we are to be done to death like this, and die like rats in a trap!”