This question was one not to be easily answered.
The upturned earth, fallen trees, and scenes of wreck and violence was evidence that the storm had been a terrible one.
Certainly it looked not at all improbable that the Kite had been dashed to pieces by the fury of the tornado.
“My God!” cried Frank, in despair. “This is the worst fatality yet.”
Then he reflected that he must have been a greater length of time in the cavern than he had reckoned upon.
What was to be done?
How was he to find the air-ship or to learn its fate? The problem was a mighty one to consider.
But as he was pondering upon it in a dismayed way, Frank was given a start of surprise.
From his position he could see the defile below.
He was amazed to see a band of horsemen threading their way out into the valley.