At length the pass was reached.
Here the mist lessened and it was easier to see the way. The machine threaded its way through the defile with greater ease.
And when its end was reached the plain and river extending to the ice-belt lay clear of mist or cloud.
The storm was peculiar to the volcanic region alone. Frank was even enabled to dispense with the searchlight.
A chill wind blew from the north, and the voyagers were obliged to wrap themselves up warmly. The machine ran along the banks of the river.
The spirits of all began to rise. Even the seamen on the Scorcher’s deck were much lighter of spirit.
“If we only find the ship unharmed,” cried Frank, “we will be able to find our way home yet.”
Home!
The word seemed to have a magic charm to each one in the party. It was true that it had been a long time since they had seen it.
Indeed, it had seemed at times as if they were doomed to spend their lives in this place. That it was to become their tomb.