"But," he added, "serve out some water and a modicum of wine. God bless our poor fellows yonder, for their conduct and discipline have been splendid. Many men in their hopeless condition would have broken into the spirit stores and died maudlin drunk, or murderously mad."
The men quickly came to the call of "All hands!" and just as quickly Talbot explained the position, and told them what the three youngsters proposed doing. The cheer that followed his words was not a lusty one, but it was very sincere.
And now, though with no nervous haste, the work of arranging and inflating the balloon was commenced and for some days steadily proceeded with.
On the third day dark clouds came sweeping down, and a thunder-storm broke over the island. What a God-send! Somewhat unusual, too, for the time of year. Not only was the rocky tank filled with water and rapidly-melting hail, but many hollows elsewhere, and every drop was precious.
Compared with Andrée's great Arctic balloon, the Hope, as Talbot's had been named, was quite a baby, but it was strong enough for anything, and could have supported and carried far more than they needed for weeks together.
Long before this, Talbot had instructed his youngsters in the art of managing a balloon, and now there was little more for them to learn on this score.
The inflation was completed at last. The net, a very strong one, was in its place. The car attached, and the splendid ball dragged impatiently at her moorings, as if longing to soar away into freedom.
Food, arms, ammunition, wine, and water--everything was in its place, everything secure, yet handy.
Then the last night came.
It was clear and starry, with a bright scimitar of a new moon in the west.