Page:The Father Confessor, Stories of Danger and Death.djvu/41

Rh nails pierced his skin. She was gazing at the wire swaying across the gap.

"‘There is only one possible way. I have thought it all out. Only one possible way.’

"‘And that?’

"‘To cross the wire.’

"‘The wire? My God! You are mad! Who would cross the wire?’

"‘You must. It is the only way to save them.’

"‘It is impossible; it might break under one’s weight. It is probably loose or rotten with time. It would be suicide to attempt it.’

"‘There is no other way, and it is like a ladder—firm enough to bear a man. You are so swift and strong—so strong, Alfred,’ she said slowly, turning and looking into his eyes. ‘There is only one man to whom the chance is given to save all these people—only one man—and only one way.’

"The man looked around; nobody else, they were miles from every one, from every help—one man; and he a coward.

"‘There is another bridge ten miles off. I could just do it on Prince,’ he whispered.

"‘Alfred,’ she said, ‘if this bridge has gone F.C.