"Strike down, and I'll do the same.

Now then, both together, and I'll keep the lanthorn between us.

Begin." They made a rush together through the water, which, after a few steps, grew rapidly shallow; and then they were out upon soft sand, striking at the dim-looking objects just revealed to them by the light; and twice over Vince felt that he had struck something soft, but whether it was seal or sand he could not tell.

Violent strokes had resounded from the roof of the echoing cavern, as Mike exerted himself to the utmost, hitting about him wildly in despair, while every few moments there was a loud splashing.

Then Mike fell violently forward on to his face, for one of the frightened creatures made a dash for the water.