We waited and waited; it seemed as if several hours had elapsed.  At last Red Squirrel, who had gone to the hole, exclaimed that he saw some dark objects moving over the snow.  They came nearer and nearer.  I cannot describe the joy I felt when I heard Uncle Donald's voice, and presently I saw Red Squirrel's legs disappear as he was drawn up through the hole.  Directly afterwards another person came slipping down.