“We—we’ll look out for those places,” Sam panted; but in spite of their watchfulness he soon was caught in a worse trap. Another gully—and deeper—lay beneath a smooth surface. Sam, being slightly in the lead, vanished almost at the feet of the astonished Orkney, who dropped to his knees, groped in what was like a white whirlpool, and was lucky enough to lay hold of Sam’s collar. Then, by dint of much tugging and hauling, aided from below by the victim of the accident, he at last succeeded in rescuing his companion from the depths.
This time both boys were glad to lie on the drift for a time, while they were regaining wind and strength. Sam was the first to speak.
“Good turn you did me then. Regular cavern down there. Rather think there was water at the bottom of it.”
“Might be,” said Orkney. “Maybe rapids in the brook—they don’t freeze up often.”
Sam gave his companion a friendly dig in the ribs.
“Guess that came near evening up a little thing I did for you once—that pond business.”
“Nonsense!” said Orkney gruffly. “Come on! Let’s move!”
He got upon his feet, and Sam followed the example.
“Right! Mustn’t let ’em get tired waiting back at Calleck’s old house. Wonder what they’re doing now.”
“Envying me the chance you gave me!” said Orkney sharply; and plowed ahead without waiting for a reply.