He proceeded to arrange for a descent upon and the capture of the air-ship that night. He felt sure of success.
Meanwhile Frank and Barney and Pomp had been attending to the routine of their duties aboard the Spectre.
It was some while before the captain’s prolonged absence was noted. Then Frank ventured to say:
“Do you think anything has happened to Beere? He ought to be here now.”
“Begorra, that’s thrue!” cried Barney. “Phwere did he go at all, at all?”
“I done seed him goin’ along dat shore early dis mornin’!” declared Pomp.
“Then he is surely in trouble!” said Frank. “We had better set out to look for him. Come on, Barney!”
The young inventor picked up his rifle and flung himself over the rail.
“All roight, sor!” cried Barney, hastening to join him. Frank turned to Pomp, saying:
“Keep a sharp lookout, Pomp. We will be back as soon as possible. Remember, we’re in a dangerous country.”