There was no warning of approach now as the creature
passed over the grass. Suddenly, like a dark,
drifting shadow, the huge bulk loomed up
once more before me, making for the entrance
of the cave. Again came that paralysis of vo-
lition which held my crooked forefinger im-
potent upon the trigger. But with a desperate
effort I shook it off. Even as the brushwood
rustled, and the monstrous beast blended with
the shadow of the Gap, I fired at the retreat-
ing form. In the blaze of the gun I caught a
glimpse of a great shaggy mass, something
with rough and bristling hair of a withered
grey colour, fading away to white in its lower
parts, the huge body supported upon short,
thick, curving legs. I had just that glance, and
then I heard the rattle of the stones as the crea-
ture tore down into its burrow. In an instant,
with a triumphant revulsion of feeling, I had
cast my fears to the wind, and uncovering my
powerful lantern, with my rifle in my hand, I
sprang down from my rock and rushed after
the monster down the old Roman shaft.

Chapter 4