“Just as you like,” answered Sir John. “Come with us by all means, or stay with Hector and watch over the Argenta.”
“I would rather stay here, sir, if you have no objection. I’ve no ties that take me back to town, and I would rather remain by the Argenta.”
Forty-eight hours later Sir John, Alan, and Desmond and his wife arrived in London. Sir John had let his town house, so they chose a quiet hotel at the back of Berkeley Square for their domicile.
Sir Christopher Somerville and Professor Chard kept the appointment made, and once again the boys recounted their adventures. “Wonderful! Marvellous! Miraculous!” the professors kept muttering to themselves, as the improbable story was unfolded to them, piece by piece.
“Now,” said Sir John, when it was at last told. “There are seven people only that have heard this story. What do you advise us to do?”
“I will see the Home Secretary,” said Sir Christopher at last. “This is a Government affair, of course. England’s to the fore again; lucky they found their way out on British territory. The question will be brought up in the House—an expedition must be formed, and the two young gentlemen would probably like to accompany us, and help us with their knowledge of the place.”
“Don’t go again,” cried Mavis, her face blanching. “Oh you wouldn’t take him from me?”
“Don’t be afraid,” said Alan kindly. “Nothing is done yet, and when it is they will be probably quite contented with me alone.”
“Would you go again?” eyes wide open in horror.
“Of course, Mavis, but I’ll see that Desmond doesn’t go,” and he laughed cheerily.