“A snake has Jack!” called Mark, when Andy was at his side.
“No! It’s not a snake!” replied the hunter. “It’s worse. It’s the snake-tree!”
“What’s that?” asked Mr. Henderson, hurrying up.
“The snake-tree has Jack,” the hunter went on. “It is a plant, half animal, half-vegetable. It has long branches, not unlike a snake in shape. They can move about and grab things.”
“One of them got a grip on Jack as he leaned against the dead tree trunk. I just caught a glimpse of it, and called to prevent Mark from running into danger.”
“Can’t we save him?” asked Mr. Henderson.
“I’m going to try!” replied Andy. “Quick! Gather up some pieces of dry wood. I have some paper, and my pipe lighter. We must fight the snake-tree with fire!”
CHAPTER XXIII
THE DESERTED VILLAGE
Jack’s cries were growing fainter and fainter. Peering in through the branches of the dead tree the professor could see the whip-like limbs winding closer and closer about the boy.
“I am afraid we will be too late!” he said.