[CHAPTER XIII]
RUNNING THE CABLE
The hopelessness of the crowds on both sides of the river had now changed to joyful anticipation. They had seen so many attempts fail to establish communication that they had almost given up. Of course they knew that in time the river would go down, and transit across it in boats would be comparatively easy. But it would still be several days before the waters would subside, it was stated, because the river was fed from many mountain brooks and rivulets, which were much swollen by heavy rains.
“And even if the river does get to its normal level,” explained the man with the megaphone, who introduced himself as James Duncan, “even then it’s dangerous.”
“Why?” inquired Bob.
“Because of a number of rocks, and the rapids which are in this part of the stream. A bridge is the only safe way to cross, and it will be some time before that can be rebuilt. But the steel cable ferry will be a big help. Are you ready to take it over now?”
“As soon as you are,” replied Ned.
“I think we had better carry a rope over first,” decided Jerry. “Then your friends on the other side can haul the cable over. If we attempt to carry the heavy wire rope in the airship it may sag, or foul, and do some damage. But we can carry a stout rope across very easily.”
“We have the rope right here,” explained Mr. Duncan. “Come on, gentlemen,” he called to some of his friends. “Get the rope ready. The boys are going to take it across. Then the boat will begin running.”
“Hurrah!” cried scores of voices.
Jerry, Ned and Bob now re-entered the airship, and began to prepare for running the cable. They looked to the motors, and set the gas machine in operation, to fully distend the big bag, as they needed all the reserve buoyancy, since the long rope would be a heavy drag.