Chapter 16

Corriston pulled back his shoulders and his posture on the ladder grew more erect. He knew that his exertions might send the ladder toppling but it was a risk he had to take. The grate was freely movable now. He could move it backwards and forwards, six or eight inches each way; but he still could not rip it completely free. He kept on tugging, his neck cords bulging, the ladder swaying dangerously. The grate could be moved upward now, just a little. No, it was finally coming completely loose. He could move it in a…