It was clear to Keith that they must take the chance of a noise, and no better time than this could be chosen.
"Here, Neb, take hold with me, and bear down--put your whole weight on it, boy." The two flung themselves upon the end of the bench leaping up and down so as to add weight to power.

Something had to give, either the stout wood of their improvised lever or else the holding of the plank.

For an instant it seemed likely to be the former; then, with a shrill screech, the long spikes yielded and the board suddenly gave.

With shoulders inserted beneath, the two men heaved it still higher, ramming the bench below so as to leave the opening clear.

This was now sufficiently ample for the passage of a man's body, and Keith, lowering himself, discovered the earth to be fully four feet below.