"What in the world is the matter now?" wondered Tom.
"Somebody in trouble in that field yonder. We'd better get out and see what's up," proposed Jack.
The shouts seemed to issue from beyond a high bank at one side of the road. On its summit was a hedge which prevented the boys seeing what was going on in the field that lay beyond.
As they got out of the car, however, Jack spied a bicycle at one side of the road. A satchel that he remembered very well was slung from its frame.
"It's the professor in trouble again!" declared Jack.
"I do believe you are right," replied Tom as they scrambled up the bank. "That's sure enough his wheel."
They found a gate in the hedge and on the other side an odd sight met their eyes. Kneeling on the ground was the professor. His right arm was thrust almost up to the shoulder into a hole in the ground. He was shouting lustily for help and appeared to be imprisoned in his queer posture.
"Some animal has got hold of his hand," cried Jack. "Come on, Tom."
"Oh, boys, thank goodness you've come," gasped the scientist.
"What's the matter?" demanded Jack.