Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/70

54 His efforts had drawn the knot more tightly, but he was convinced that the strap itself was giving a little. With renewed hope he increased his exertions, and at last, to his unspeakable delight, he was able to withdraw one hand, though it pained him so intensely that he was fearful it would be useless. In his excitement he sat partly erect as he moved his hands in front of him, and with one hastily tore away the strap that was still wrapped about the other. His occupation was interrupted by a slight sound from the doorway, and glancing up, he beheld the giant standing just outside the hut. He had not then been sleeping, after all, and instantly Robert threw himself back upon the blankets, hardly daring to draw a long breath, so fearful was he that Josh had been quietly watching him in his efforts to free his hands. The giant stepped out into the night for a moment, and could not be seen, but he soon reëntered the hut and approached the place where the two men were lying. Was he about to adjust the strap again? The question caused Robert's heart to beat furiously, and for a moment the suspense was well-nigh unendurable. He tried to breathe regularly and heavily, like one who was sleeping, but his efforts seemed to him