I continued to work. Then I heard Fortunato trying to free himself. I stopped again and listened. When he stopped, I continued to work. Soon the wall was as high as my chest. Then I lifted my light over the wall so I could see him.
Suddenly, he began to scream. The screams were loud and strong, and I stepped back. I became afraid. Maybe someone can hear him, I thought. But then I felt the thick walls of the underground caves. Nobody could possibly hear.
I returned to the wall. When Fortunato screamed, I screamed too. My screams were louder and stronger, and he became quiet. It was midnight, and my job was nearly done. I only had to place one more heavy stone. I lifted the stone and began to put it in. But then I heard a terrible, low laugh. The hairs on my head stood up. Then I heard a sad voice. It did not sound like Fortunato.
