The danger was momentarily over. But the fate of the air-ship now became the engrossing subject.
Would Pomp be sufficiently on his guard to repel the attack? But the question was the next moment answered in a satisfactory manner.
The distant rattle of firearms was heard.
“They have made the attack,” cried Frank. “Now all depends on Pomp.”
“Niver yez fear for the naygur,” cried Barney. “Shure, he’ll fool thim aisy enough.”
The rattle of the guns grew momentarily more rapid and clear. It was plain that Pomp was giving them a hot reception.
But that the overpowering numbers would result in the capture of the air-ship would seem certain unless the darky should employ different tactics. And this he was shrewd enough to do.
Seeing that the foe were preparing to charge upon him, the darky acted accordingly.
He sent the air-ship aloft instantly. His companions in hiding below suddenly saw it appear just above them.
“Hurrah!” cried Frank. “Pomp was on his guard. The air-ship is safe.”