He saw quickly that it was going to be quite useless to attempt to defeat the brigands by means of rifles alone.
So he quickly connected the hull of the air-ship with the dynamos, and pressed the key which sent the electric current into it.
The result was a most unpleasant surprise to the brigands.
They were flung from the air-ship’s deck as if propelled by giant hands. Broken bones and damaged heads were in order. Every brigand who ventured to touch the electrified air-ship was sorry the next moment.
This ended the battle.
The brigands withdrew into the darkness. They continued to fire ineffectual shots at the air-ship for some time.
But after awhile they withdrew.
This ended the affair for the time. The voyagers had reason to congratulate themselves that they had escaped so luckily.
“Begorra, I niver had a more narrow escape from instant death in me loife!” cried Barney. “Bechune you an’ the brigands, naygur, I come mighty nigh croakin’.”
“Youse jes’ right dar, I’ish,” returned Pomp, with flashing eyes. “An’ dat jes’ serves yo’ right fo’ yo’ treatment of me!”