The helmets were hurriedly brought and donned.
It was none too soon, for the air in the cabin was quickly exhausted. Then the Dart came to a stop, for it was useless to attempt to run it without the aid of the pneumatic engine.
The Dart was securely anchored, and then, as lightly equipped as possible, the explorers set forth upon their apparently hopeless quest for land.
On and on they wandered.
What seemed like an interminable period elapsed.
Still there was no sign of land.
Von Bulow had begun to give out.
All the others were more or less affected; at length the scientist sank down helpless.
But at the eleventh hour rescue came.
Suddenly Barney sprang up with a sharp cry. It was not heard by the others, but his action was seen.