could be the connection between this machine and the Great Eyrie!

In whispered words, I told Wells of my discovery. His only comment
was, "It is all incomprehensible!"

Meanwhile the two men had continued on their way to the woods, and
were gathering sticks beneath the trees. "What if they discover our
encampment?" murmured Wells.

"No danger, if they do not go beyond the nearest trees."

"But if they do discover it?"

"They will hurry back to their boat, and we shall be able to cut off
their retreat."

Toward the creek, where their craft lay, there was no further sound.
I left my hiding-place; I descended the ravine to the quay; I stood
on the very spot where the grappling-iron was fast among the rocks.

The "Terror" lay there, quiet at the end of its cable. Not a light
was on board; not a person visible, either on the deck, or on the
bank. Was not this my opportunity? Should I leap on board and there
await the return of the two men?

"Mr. Strock!" It was Wells, who called to me softly from close at
hand.

I drew back in all haste and crouched down beside him. Was it too
late to take possession of the boat? Or would the attempt perhaps