Chapter 21 OUT OF THE FRYING-PAN INTO THE FIRE.

Arrived at the opening, Ernest found that there was a trap-door which was ordinarily closed, but through some misadventure had been left open. It was, however, a serious problem to draw himself up so as to profit by what he had already done.

Twice he failed, and nearly lost his grip on the rope. Then he caught hold of the projection from which t