“You have certainly hit upon a logical idea, Randall. But if it is true, where does this flood come from, and how would the people know it?”
Randall pointed to the distant column of smoke rising from the volcano.
“Do you see that?” he asked. “It means that this entire region is governed by volcanic forces. Now, the action of the internal forces, of which we know little, may be capable of bringing a vast volume of water periodically to the surface from subterranean basins. The pressure would be sufficient. Synonymous with certain actions of yonder volcano, this beautiful land of promise is flooded to the brim.”
Frank gazed keenly at Randall. He had not given him credit for so much penetration.
“And that is why this country has been abandoned?”
“Just so! It is easy to see how the people could tell when danger threatened. The eruptions of the volcano are doubtless periodical. The Polar people knew just when to abandon the valley.”
“Whew!” exclaimed Frank. “Then, according to that, it is apt to become flooded at any time now!”
“Just so.”
“Randall, you are keen.”
“Pshaw! It only requires a little study. Do you see that little rivulet trickling out from under the mountain wall?”