“The question is settled. The ballot is unanimous.”
“In favor of——”
“The dynamite.”
Frank Reade, Jr., arose from his chair. He was very cool and steady as he said to Barney:
“Bring up the metal canisters from the hold. Rig a wire with the battery. Then procure picks and spades, put on your suits, you and Pomp, and come with me.”
Pomp went for the picks and spades. In a few moments all was in readiness.
Frank, with Barney and Pomp, donned diving suits.
Then they went out on deck, and a little later were at the keel of the boat.
Frank directed the digging of the mine.
The coral was easily picked away, but the ledge rock required drilling and splitting.