But Harding did not turn up, nor could a trace of him be found.
“Well,” muttered Frank, in amazement, “that is mighty queer. What can it mean?”
After some time spent thus, a horrible fear seized the young inventor.
It was possible that Harding had been struck by one of the brigand’s bullets, and was lying dead in some out-of-the-way place.
This decided Frank upon a different plan of action.
“Lower the ship, Barney!” he cried. “Be lively about it!”
“All roight, sor,” replied Barney.
Down went the air-ship.
It rested upon the earth in the verge of the jungle. Frank seized his rifle and descended to the ground.
He lost no time in at once entering the jungle.