She felt sick and dizzy at the same time. She knew she had to free herself before the cellar became totally engulfed. She pulled hard with her right arm and felt the stake give slightly. It allowed her more leverage on her left arm. Pulling hard, she loosened it some. This allowed her to lean forward and put more of her body into her right arm. Giving it all she had, she felt it slipping and then flying free. She did not bother to untie the ropes. Using two hands, she pulled the remaining three stakes loose. On her feet quickly, she dragged two burning boxes to the window and climbed up.