“You are right, Frank. Now, the next thing is to investigate its stomach and see if the metal case can be found.”
“It shall be done.”
Preparations were at once made to carry out this plan. The diving suits were donned, and all equipped themselves with sharp knives and pikes.
It was a critical time, for all depended upon the success of this attempt to find the metal ease containing the confession.
Of course, there was only a slight possibility that it had remained intact in the whale’s stomach.
There was the likelihood that other substances had long since corroded and consumed it.
In that case Valentine Tucker must continue to languish for the crime of which he was not guilty.
All that could be done would then have been done. At least the party could console themselves with this thought.
Work was at once begun dissecting the stomach and intestines of the whale. It was no slight task.
It was necessary to proceed with the utmost caution and care. Every little shred, every cell was carefully looked into.