In the meantime Bob Somers and Dave Brandon had entered the building. Choking and sputtering, they reached the main corridor and saw bright tongues of flame mingling with the smoke.
From the floor above came excited shouts and the sound of axes chopping through rafters and beams.
Bob Somers and Dave Brandon did not care to tarry long. Their eyes ached and choking sensations gripped their throats.
"Unless the fellows hurry up, it will be too late," gasped Dave, as the two made their way out and stood upon the steps.
"Let's make a dash for the president's room, and get out some of his things," cried Bob Somers. "Come on, Dave Brandon!"
Both boys again disappeared in the smoke-laden atmosphere.
CHAPTER II
THE BUCKET BRIGADE
It was a rather perilous undertaking. Professors Hughes and Ivins, both elderly men, did not dare to again brave the danger.