“Yes. When the Indians show up it is as likely as not that they will be overawed and treat us like gods instead of starting trouble, for didn’t we come from the sky? We can keep on our goggles and helmets as a disguise; then put them to work.”
“I fail to see what good that would do.”
“People who can build walls and houses of large stones that fit together so perfectly they stand for centuries; who put up temples and palaces, and who make such wonderful textiles and ornaments, must be pretty skilful with their hands, and also have a good deal of intelligence to back them up. We will get them to make a new propeller, under our direction and with our help. Then we can leave the way we came.”
“It sounds wild and impracticable.”
“Wait and see. Leave the matter to me.”
It was not until the next day that they saw signs of life in the valley. They had eaten the last of their food and had spent a miserable night huddled up in the seats of the stranded plane.
A long column of Indians, marching in orderly manner, appeared from the direction of the river that flowed through the centre of the depression. At first the advancing throng was too far distant to distinguish its character, but as it drew nearer the two watchers saw by the gorgeous dress and glittering ornaments that many of the marchers belonged to the nobility.
“What are we going to do?” Ted asked, breaking the suspense.
“The machine-guns are in good order and there are over five hundred rounds of ammunition in the magazines.”
“Shall we open fire?”