As Jerry clasped it there was a sound behind them, and they turned to behold Dr. Klauss regarding them with a strange light in his eyes.


[CHAPTER XXV]
IN CHAINS

The conspirators—they were really that, though it was a conspiracy to save their own lives—the conspirators, then, started half-guiltily as they beheld the form of the insane commander. Had he overheard their plot?

Jerry gave a quick glance at his allies—the machinists. He seemed to be saying:

“If he has heard us we must act now. We must overpower him at once if he tries to attack us.”

Ted Rowland nodded as if he understood, and for a few seconds they all seemed to be waiting.

It was an awkward moment. Then Dr. Klauss spoke.

“How are the motors running?” he asked, and his voice sounded perfectly natural.