Before he can succeed, Mustapha Cadi has leaped upward, and fastened his hand upon the man's throat, and by the weight of his body pulls the fellow through.
Philander snatches up the gun with a cry of delight.

He seems to have a weakness for these Arab weapons, on this night, at least, three having passed through his hands.

There is heard the sound of a desperate tussle, as the faithful guide battles with his victim.
Again the hole above is darkened, as a human figure attempts to push through, but the British soldier is ready this time.

He has the gun Philander threw aside as useless, and, with all his power, he dashes this against the human wedge that fills the opening, sending the fellow whirling over to the ground, shrieking out Arabic imprecations, and calling upon Allah to give the unbelieving dogs into their hands.
More stones are served.

They begin to drop through, and it looks serious for those who crouch within.