As he stepped forward to a canvas-covered table, Senov’s foot touched a hidden square upon the wooden layer that formed the floor.
Hissing sounds came from the sides of the room. Senov laughed within his mask. Those who had sought to protect this vault had hidden gas tanks in the walls. The deadly vapor was filling the room; but it was no weapon against Senov. He had used gas to conquer. He and his men were equipped to resist it, with their gas masks.
With his free fist, Senov seized the canvas covering and ripped it away. He stared in triumph at the table before him. The rays of his flashlight were reflected by a glory of sparkling light.
Glittering splotches of green; bright flashes of blue; deep glowing spots of red, showed before Senov’s eyes! A medley of glorious gems shone in barbaric splendor!
Here, in this buried vault, Michael Senov had uncovered the greatest array of wealth in all the world! He had found the hoarded jewels of the Romanoffs — all those vast possessions which the Revolutionists had wrested from the last of the Czars!
CHAPTER X. THE SHADOW ARRIVES
MICHAEL SENOV stood on the spiral staircase of the vault. His flashlight threw its parting gleams upon the table. The rays were reflected by the bare wood. Senov turned and ascended the stairs. His henchmen were awaiting him.
Three men were holding bags in their possession These were the same bags that had held the gas masks; now their contents consisted of priceless wealth. At Senov’s command, the underlings had brought the bags that he might stow the jewels for safe carriage.
All but Senov and these three trusted men had gone above. Now the triumphant procession followed.
With gas masks still covering their heads, these four made a grotesque group as they marched from the five-sided room.