Page:Moving Picture Boys and the Flood.djvu/53

Rh against us in a hurry. The engineer had to put on the emergency air, in order to stop in time."

They all walked forward along the track to the first span of the bridge. It looked to be all right, but the rushing, muddy water that flowed beneath it was close to the ties and rails.

"I think one of the piers is weakened a little," said the bridge-tender. "And if the water rises much more she'll tear away, sure. I've sent for the repair gang. They're only five miles away, and they may be able to brace it temporarily."

"Then we'll be delayed?" asked Mr. Ringold.

"I'm afraid so," answered the conductor. "I can't take any chances with this train on a weak bridge."

Of course he was right, but everyone fretted over the delay, especially our friends, who wanted to start their rescue work.

"We'll, [sic] I've got something to film, anyhow!" cried Blake. "I'll make pictures showing the repairs to the bridge."

The construction and wrecking crews were soon on hand, and a careful examination disclosed the fact that the bridge had been slightly weakened.

"But we can brace her temporarily—that is, unless the water rises suddenly," said the foreman.