"What are his chances, Colonel?" asked Captain Hooper.
The chief shook his head as though doubtful of the result, then, after watching the machine for a moment, as it climbed in rapid spirals up into the clouds which half covered the sky at four thousand feet, he said:--
"There is no pilot aboard the Scorpion, or any other machine for that matter, who can hold a candle to Keane, but--it is the amazing speed and climbing powers of the other machine that I fear. Still, it will be some fight, and if we fail to trap the brigand down here, well, it is just possible, despite his disadvantages, that Keane may bring the rascal down. He'll have to keep well out of sight, though, and run at less than half-throttle behind that cloud bank till the moment comes to strike. And now to stations, all of you, and keep well out of sight. Professor Verne, I am afraid you will have to take charge of the two prisoners. Don't let them get away for heaven's sake. You must shoot them first."
"I'll take care of them, Colonel," replied the eminent man, "though it is a somewhat unusual occupation for me."
"Needs must when the devil drives, Professor! I told you it would be some desperate adventure. Have you had any luck with that evil genius, yet?"
"Not the slightest, so far. He is prejudiced against the English mind, and is secretly rejoicing over the expected arrival of the Scorpion."
"Tell him from me, Professor, that if he attempts to escape, I shall shoot both him and his accomplice without the slightest compunction," said the colonel, as he turned away to re-examine all his defensive posts, and to alter the position of one of the machine guns, which had been entrusted to Captain Sharpe.
Fifteen minutes passed away, and the Bristol, hidden away behind the cloud bank, kept its engine well-throttled down, lest the roar of the powerful motor should reveal its presence, when, suddenly, from one of the watchers, the cry arose:--
"Aeroplane approaching from the south-east."
"Is it the Scorpion, Captain Watson?" the colonel asked, as soon as the machine had been located.