First one yielded, then another, and, as they were dragged out, the men cheered, and passed them back to those down the rough steps.
With every stone removed, hope strengthened the little party; but as the explosions followed fast, and the flames began to flicker and play up the passage in which they were penned, Archy closed his eyes for a few moments to mutter a prayer, for his thoughts were getting wild.
Just then, he knew that some one else thought as he did, for a hand touched his arm, and a voice whispered,-- "It wasn't my fault.

It must have been Jemmy Dadd.

I say--case they can't make a way out in time--shake hands once, mate.

I do like you." Something like a hysterical sob burst from the young midshipman's breast at this; and, facing death as he was just then,--a horrible death which might follow at any moment,--the lad's hand grasped that of his young gaoler--officer and smuggler, but both boys of one blood, who had fought each according to his lights.
"Hah!" sighed Ram, as he gripped hard, and then let go.

"Now, then, tell 'em to shove the stones, sharp, and let 'em fall out.