Page:Walker (1888) The Severn Tunnel.djvu/219

134 gathered, water-proof clothing, sacks, timber, and such-like things, were used to try to form a dam round the top of the shaft to stop back the water.

In spite of all that could be done, the water rose in the tunnel at the bottom of the shaft, to within 8 feet of the crown of the arch. Then the tide going back, and the dam at the top being more effectually made, preparations were made to rescue the men who were imprisoned below. The whole of the bottom of the tunnel and heading was under water, and the men had retreated to a stage in one of the break-ups, where they sat not knowing what their fate would be.

The men who had by this time gathered round the top of the pit were sent for a small boat, which was lowered down the pit, and launched on the water in the tunnel, a few men with lights getting into the boat pushed up the tunnel to rescue their comrades; but after going a short distance they came to timbers placed across the tunnel from side to side, which blocked their progress. Returning to the shaft they obtained a cross-cut saw, and commenced to cut away the timbers. They had been at work but a short time, when the saw dropped overboard, and they had to wait until another was procured; but at last the men were all rescued, and brought safely to bank on the morning of the 18th.

The tidal wave had not only drowned the Marsh Pit, but had come up with sufficient force to flow