Most of the men had stripped themselves naked, to work more comfortably, for the heat was well-nigh unbearable; but now, as they stood ready to push the raft into the water, the sun suddenly disappeared and a cold chill swept over them.
“We’re going to have a storm,” cried Daggett, looking curiously into the sky. “Better leave the raft where it is, my lads, and make for the cave.”
The warning was unquestionable. Already a low, moaning sound came to their ears across the sea, and the sky grew darker each moment.
With one accord the men seized their clothing in their arms and ran along the beach toward the cave, while tiny points of lightning darted here and there about them, casting weird if momentary gleams upon their naked forms.
Nux and I sitting half asleep by the mouth of the cave, were warned by the first chill blast that swept over us that the weather had changed and a storm was imminent. Springing to my feet I looked fearfully at the darkening sky.
“What’ll we do, Nux?” I asked. “This will bring our enemies back here in double-quick time.”
“Better climb on top de rock, Mars Sam,” advised the Sulu.
“But it’ll rain—floods and torrents, probably—and thunder and lightning besides.”
“’Spect it will, Mars Sam. But rain wont hurt us much.”
“And Daggett’s gang will, if they catch us. I guess you’re right, Nux. Come along.”