“Well, it is high time,” replied Wendel. “I think we will see them from lower ground.”
So all looked forward eagerly to this possibility. The Scorcher, with brakes on, slowly made its way down the mountain side.
Soon, after a descent of a few thousand feet, not unattended, with risk, the machine slid out upon a plateau. Here the surface was comparatively smooth and free from obstructions.
The Scorcher rolled forward to the verge of the plateau.
Then glasses were brought out, and all looked for the habitations described by Wendel, but the old sailor was given a great surprise.
They were nowhere visible.
Words can hardly depict his supreme amazement. The eyes of all were fixed upon him.
“Well, I’m blowed,” exclaimed the old sailor. “I can say that there were cities and towns and people here, when I was here before! I don’t see how they could take wings and fly away!”
“That is very curious, Jack,” said Randall. “Are you sure this is the locality visited by you?”
“Sartin it is, mate.”