saw him raise his staff aloft. I followed the motion of his hand, and
with a thrill of horror I saw a great ledge of rock sliding downward
with threatening speed, while at the same time a shower of small stones
crashed on the roof of the cars.

I did not wait for the guards to open my door. I had it open in an
instant. From the other carriages passengers were jumping out at the
risk of life and limb, for the train was running at full speed.

I hastily ran into the coupé to awaken my travelling companions, but
found them up. "Madam," I said, "I am afraid that we are in danger of a
serious accident. Pray come out quickly!"

"Save the child!" she answered; and I caught the little boy, took him in
my arms, and ran out.

The train was gliding perpetually on, and I bethought myself of the
recommendation of one who is jumping from a running vehicle, to leap
forward, because in jumping sideways or backward he invariably falls
under the wheels. So I followed the recommendation and leaped.
Fortunately, I reached the ground, although my knees doubled up under
me, and I struck the knuckles of my right hand a hard blow. The child
had fainted in my arms, but only from fright; otherwise he had received
no harm. I laid him on the ground in a safe place, and ran with all my
might after the train to help the lady out. She was standing on the
steps, already prepared for the jump. I extended my hand to her,
impatiently crying "Quick!" But instead of taking my proffered hand she
exclaimed, "Oh! I have forgotten my bonnet and veil," and back she ran
into the coupé, never again to come forth.