sed.

"Well, wishes won't make one," said the practical Hugh; "and so we'll
have to do without. But if you look around sharply I think you'll
find a long pole there, for I remember noticing something of the kind."

The boy above vanished for a brief period, which seemed ages to the
anxious Claude; and even Hugh counted the seconds, for the strain was
something serious. Then again that friendly head appeared in view.

"You were right, Hugh!" called the Smith boy; "there was such a
pole handy, and I've got the same right here now. It's plenty long
enough to reach down to you; but I'm wondering however I'll be able
to draw two of you up."

"I don't expect you to, all by yourself, Just," Huge told him. "Poke
the end of it down here, and keep a good stiff grip on the butt.
Then we'll hold on, and find places to set our feet. Inch by inch,
and foot by foot, we'll manage to climb up. You can help a little
by keeping the stick coming, you know."

"I get you, Hugh!" snapped the other eagerly; "and it's sure a right
good scheme. But be mighty careful you don't slip, either of you.
That fall'd break bones, even if it didn't kill you outright."

"Don't worry about us, Just Smith; pay attention to your part of the
contract, and things are bound to work out first-class. Lower away,
and don't poke us off our perch, please. We've only got a risky
hold below here."

So saying, Hugh encouraged the other two to do their part manfully.
Even Claude was shivering less than before, as though a breath of
renewed confidence might have been installed in his heart by this
close contact with such a stalwart chap as Hugh Morgan. It was going
to be the turning point in Claude's career, of that Hugh felt positive.
After this thrilling experience he was bound to awaken to the fact that
he was not like other boys of his age; and demand of his mother that
she permit him to participate in the life-giving outdoor sports that
are a part and parcel of boy nature.

They began to climb. It was slow work, but Hugh would not be hurried.
Better that they waste time in gaining each foot than by an unwise
step ruin all. What matter if that arm of his was almost numb with
pain, and he had to press his teeth firmly together in order to
continue to hold up Claude? If only the other had been a normal boy
he could have helped himself wonderfully; but, as it was, he seemed
as weak and helpless as a kitten that had never opened its eyes as yet.

W