She clenched her
fists until the nails almost cut into the flesh of her hands, and all
the time she was wondering if the belt that seemed to be cutting her in
two would hold or break. Those on the ledge above were wondering much
the same thing. They were operating with extreme caution for that very
reason.
"You are almost up to us, Tommy," encouraged the guardian. "Be very
careful. Make no sudden moves. Don't try to take hold of the edge
when we get you level with it. We shall have to pull you over the last
two or three feet by taking hold of you. Then we will have something
to be thankful for, won't we?"
"Yeth," wailed a weak voice from over the side.
"Ready!"
This time Tommy came up so close that the guardian was able to touch
her. Miss Elting leaned over and patted Tommy on the shoulder
reassuringly.
"One more long, strong pull and we shall have you within a little way
of safety. Girls, are you ready for the last pull?"
Margery was breathing heavily, Hazel, too, was taking short, excited
breaths.
"Yes, when you are ready," answered Hazel. "Get ready back there,
ready to hold fast after the last pull.
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