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A GLEAM OF HOPE
79
gradually, like gas or an oil lamp. Turn it on easily."
"I get you, Tom."
Ned did as requested. Slowly the illumination in the booth increased.
"Do you get anything, Tom?" asked Ned, over the wire.
"Not yet," was the somewhat discouraged answer. "Go ahead, turn on more light, and keep your face close to the plate."
Ned did so.
"How about it now?" he asked, a moment later.
"Nothing—yet," was the answer. And then suddenly Tom's voice rose to a scream over the wire.
"Ned—Ned! Quick!" he called. "Come here—I—I
"The voice died off into a meaningless gurgle.