The airship was quite close to a range of frowning cliffs that hemmed the coast and advanced rapidly.
In the far distance was a solitary ship, almost becalmed, for the weather was very quiet and hot.
Ahead a cluster of palms on a narrow, flat neck of land, projected out into the Gulf, assuming the singular look as if they were growing out of the water.
The Jove shot toward them.
As she drew nearer a gun shot was heard coming from behind the palms.
Frank expected to feel the shot, but was disappointed, and ordered Barney to drive ahead till they investigated the shot.
“Peaceful people do not fire gunshots for nothing,” said Frank. “Outlaws carry arms.”
“D’ye moind that,” said Barney, pointing out at the ship they had first seen lying off at sea.
“A puff of smoke is rising from her deck.”
“It is that. An’ she’s headin’ this way.”