Everyone watched tensely as Thomas Brewster worked the screwdriver under the lid of the box. A small lock held it shut. Finally, the lid sprang open. Inside was a loose, dust-like substance, hardened in spots where sea water had leaked in. There was also a damp piece of paper.
“This is it. It’s got to be. Take a look, Dr. Weber.”
The doctor dipped his hand in the box. He fingered the powdery substance. He nodded his head.
“I can’t tell how this will run yet. I will have to test it. But ... well, I think we’ve really got something here.”
Thomas Brewster and Biff were pouring over the map.
“The field’s well marked. Won’t be any trouble locating it if this sample proves out to be high grade.”
The doctor was looking at the pilot.
“Young man, could you fly me back to Honolulu?”
“Sure. Only take an hour or so.”
“Well, Tom. I’d like to get back to my hotel. All my equipment is there. I can test this sample immediately. I want to. Is it all right with you, Henry, if I steal your plane and pilot?”