[CHAPTER XXVII.]
THE JONAH.
As the body of the falling man struck the slimy floor of the old sub-cellar beneath the Donegal Shades, Detective Hook sprang back against the damp and dripping wall.
It was well that he did so.
With a heavy thud the man fell at his feet half buried in the foul and pasty mud.
Instantly the trap-door was heard to close above him, followed by the sound of feet moving away.
"Oh, God—oh, God, have mercy on my sinful soul! Must I die here like a dog?"
From the man at his feet the sound went forth.
Caleb Hook kneeled by his side.
"Courage, friend!" he whispered. "Courage! God may help us yet!"