through the opening, and unable to conceive what could induce him to stop thus — ”Come on, Porthos!

come on,” he cried; “come quickly!”

“Oh!” replied the giant, making an effort that contorted every muscle of his body — ”oh! but I cannot.” While saying these words, he fell upon his knees, but with his mighty hands he clung to the rocks, and raised himself up again.

“Quick! quick!” repeated Aramis, bending forward towards the shore, as if to draw Porthos towards him with his arms.

“Here I am,” stammered Porthos, collecting all his strength to make one step more.

“In the name of Heaven! Porthos, make haste! the barrel will blow up!”