James Starr and his companions could therefore proceed in security.

Besides, the air grew purer by rising to the heights of the Dochart pit; and the fire-damp, spreading through the atmosphere, would not be strong enough to make any explosion.
"To work, then!" repeated Ford; and soon the rock flew in splinters under his skillful blows.

The break was chiefly composed of pudding-stone, interspersed with sandstone and schist, such as is most often met with between the coal veins.

James Starr picked up some of the pieces, and examined them carefully, hoping to discover some trace of coal.
Starr having chosen the place where the holes were to be drilled, they were rapidly bored by Harry.

Some cartridges of dynamite were put into them.