“Perhaps. But the thing for us to do is to get ready to hunt for that valley. As soon as we have rested up, and given our craft an overhauling, we’ll start for the place.”
The airship was made secure against storms, and then our three heroes and Professor Snodgrass proceeded to make themselves comfortable in one of the several cabins at the mine. Bob’s desire for food was gratified, the Chinese cook soon serving an excellent meal.
The next two days were spent in going over the airship, and in arranging for supplies and provisions for the long tour. Mr. Tod went off on a little trip, to see an old miner, and make some inquiries regarding Lost Valley. He came back the third day after the arrival of the boys, but the information he secured was not much more definite than that which he already possessed.
“We’ll just have to prospect for that valley,” he said.
“We,” repeated Jim Nestor. “Are you going along, Tod?”
“Wa’al, I calalated that if the airship would hold me I’d like to go. I ain’t fit any Indians for a long time, and I’d sort of like the sensation.”
“Oh, the airship will carry a large party, though we have not sleeping accommodations for many,” said Jerry. “That is, if we should happen to rescue the people of the valley.”
“Oh, I guess you can make out,” answered Tod. “But I say, Jim, you ain’t got any objections to my goin’; have you?”
“Not a bit. Glad to have you go with the boys. I’ll have to stay here and look after the mine, although I guess Noddy and his gang have about given up trying to get it.”