Page:Fairview Boys at Lighthouse Cove.djvu/59



" are you?" called Bob to the light-keeper, as the boys went into the living room. All was so dark they could see nothing.

"Right here, at the foot of the stairs," answered Mr. Floyd. "I haven't been able to move since my fall."

"Are you badly hurt?" asked Frank.

"I don't know, but I hope not. Never mind about me, though. You must set the lantern going, for I can't do it. That is most important. I have never yet let it go out—this is the first time; but I could not help that."

"Wait, I'll strike a match," said Sammy. "Then we can see what we are doing."

The tiny glow illuminated the room, and the boys could see the light-keeper huddled in a heap at the foot of the stairs that led to the tower, at the top of which was the big lantern.

"There's a lamp on the table," said the aged man, pointing to it. "Light that, and then go up to the lantern. Do you think you can light it?"

"I guess so," answered Bob. "Your daughter showed us how it was done."

"That's good. She little knew how soon you might have to do it. But if you think you can't do it, you must go for help. My wife and daughter have gone to visit relations, and will be away all night, but you can get some of the fishermen; they will know how to light the lantern."