He was right.
With a sudden booming roar and upheaval of the ocean, the entire mass of land sank under the waves, which for a long time boiled and simmered above it. Just as the last vestige of the island vanished, leaving only the newly created peninsula projecting from the land, they reached the solid earth.
Their dash to the mainland had taken place only just in time. A little more delay, they realized with shudders, would have meant their total annihilation.
“I said the island would go,” cried Abner Jennings triumphantly. “I’ve ’em vanish like that in the South Seas.”
No one had any comment to make. The horror of what they had just witnessed struck them all dumb. The gratitude they felt to Divine Providence for their lucky rescue filled their hearts to overflowing, and left no room for speech.
The Flying Road Racer was stopped, and they silently gazed for a long time at the bubbling, heaving waters.
The sight was impressive, even if it did cause a shiver and inspire a feeling that bordered on fear.
After a while the Professor spoke. His tone was as solemn as his words.
“Boys,” he said, addressing his young friends, “we have just witnessed something that many scientists would give a great deal to behold.”
“Well, candidly,” said Tom, “I’ve seen enough of it.”