He slipped and slid on the rocks for some yards. The quick presence of mind of Frank Reade, Jr., saved the day.
The young inventor raised his rifle quick as a flash and fired again.
This time the bullet went to the mark. It took effect in the lion’s vitals, and the battle was quickly over.
The huge beast tumbled in a heap. Barney was instantly upon his feet.
“Begorra, I niver got such a basting as that afore!” he grumbled, rubbing his arm. “Shure, the crather nigh kilt me.”
“We can congratulate ourselves upon a very lucky escape,” declared Frank. “There was little chance for us. If the lion had closed his jaws upon any one of us it would have been a serious matter.”
It was decided to strip the noble beasts of their skins, and then return to the airship.
The hunt had proved a glowing success, and all were well satisfied.
It did not take Barney and Pomp long to flay the lions. They were magnificent skins, and would make beautiful robes when properly dressed.
Upon returning to the Dart, Professor Gaston was found busily arranging some botanical specimens.