Meanwhile, Noddy and his cronies made an unsuccessful attempt to get a modified order from the court, allowing them to work the mine; but they were defeated, and Mike Malone remained in possession. With him on guard, the motor boys and their friends had little to fear.
At last all was in readiness, and one morning, the airship having been thoroughly gone over, the supplies and food put on board, and everything made taut and trim, was ready for the start.
“All aboard!” called Jerry. “Come on, Professor,” for the scientist was racing after a new kind of butterfly.
“In a moment,” he answered, as, with a sweep of his net, he imprisoned the insect. Then he hurried into the cabin of the Comet.
Jerry started the motor, and the big airship arose with a rush, while Malone, on guard at the mine, sent a cheer after the adventurers.
“Good luck!” he called.
Would they find the mysterious valley and rescue the missing party, or would they themselves fall a prey to the Indians? It was a question no one could answer.