It was essential that the discharge should take place at the precise moment indicated in the calculations of J. T. Maston, that is at the instant the sun touched the equinoctial line, which henceforth he would never leave in his apparent orbit round the terrestrial spheroid.
Five minutes to twelve!
Four minutes to twelve!
Three minutes to twelve!
Two minutes to twelve!
One minute to twelve!
Barbicane followed the hand of the chronometer, which was lighted by a lantern held by one of the foremen.
Captain Nicholl stood with his finger on the button of the apparatus ready to close the circuit.
Twenty seconds to twelve!
Ten seconds!