"Then we are over the Atlantic," Monsieur Teclier said.
The gas was roaring from the valve above, and the balloon sank rapidly into the stratum of clouds. For a minute, all was silent; and then a cry broke from them all. They were a considerable distance from the coast, and were driving along with great rapidity. Immediately under the balloon was an island, of no great size and, beyond that, no land whatever was visible.
"We must descend on that island, or we are lost. It is our only chance."
The valve was still open; and its influence was easily seen, for the balloon sank rapidly down through the opening of the clouds.
"We shan't be down in time," the boys exclaimed, simultaneously.
It was but too evident. The balloon, when the first general view of the situation had been obtained, was fully a mile high; and was traveling seaward at the rate of thirty miles an hour. The island, at the point at which they were crossing, was about three miles wide; but they had passed fully half a mile over it, before they obtained a fair view. In five minutes, therefore, they would be beyond the land again; and they had to fall a mile, in that time.
"Cut the balloon to pieces," Monsieur Teclier said. "Tear it up. We must risk everything."
The boys seized the silk, tore, and hacked at it; as did the aeronaut. In two minutes, a vast quantity of gas had escaped from the rents, and the silk was doubled up near the top of the net.
