“How many times will it shoot?” asked Archie.
“Forty-five times. That will exhaust the power of the belt,” replied Allerton.
“And then?” said Captain Steele.
“Then we must use another belt, sir. I have six belts for each electrite, and eight electrites.”
“Have you ever tested it?” I asked, a little bewildered as I began to comprehend the marvel of the thing.
“No; not yet. But Professor Wells, the inventor, has fully tested its power, first on dogs and small animals, then on a horse, and finally upon his janitor, who agreed to submit to the ordeal.”
“You don’t mean to say he murdered the man!” cried Uncle Naboth, horrified.
“Not at all, sir. The most astonishing thing about the electrite is that it doesn’t kill—it stuns. A charge from it will knock a man over instantly, rendering him unconscious and apparently lifeless. From two to three hours later, depending upon his physical condition and vitality, he will regain consciousness and be little the worse for his experience save perhaps for a headache. This is why I told you the electrite is destined to abolish war and conserve peace. Nothing can stand against it. Its use will enable an army to conquer and yet avoid bloodshed. If electrites were used by two opposing forces no wails of widow and orphans would follow in the wake of a battle to cast their gloom over the victors.”
We sat spellbound and in silence for a time, thoughtfully considering these things. Gradually I, for my part, began to appreciate the marvel of this great invention.[1]
“I’d like to test it,” said Joe, calmly. “Will you try it on me, Lieutenant?”