He joined the Banker by the table. "I'll get some nitric acid," he added. "I don't know what else——"
"We'll have to get that out of here, too," said the Big Business Man, pointing to the rug. "God knows how we'll explain it."
The Doctor picked up one of the tin boxes of drugs and held it in his hand meditatively. Then he looked over towards the rug. From under one side a brownish liquid was oozing; the Doctor shuddered.
"My friends," he said, holding up the box before them, "we can realize now something of the terrible power we have created and imprisoned here. We must guard it carefully, gentlemen, for if it escapes—it will destroy the world."
CHAPTER XII
THE START
On the evening of November 4th, 1923, the four friends again assembled at the Scientific Club for the start of their momentous adventure. The Doctor was the last to arrive, and found the other three anxiously awaiting him. He brought with him the valise containing the ring and a suitcase with the drugs and equipment necessary for the journey. He greeted his friends gravely.
"The time has come, gentlemen," he said, putting the suitcase on the table.
The Big Business Man took out the ring and held it in his hand thoughtfully.