On this occasion it had been agreed not to look for anything but the sunken treasure ship; consequently, the fish net and several other similar appliances had been left behind.
In their places the diving bell contained several tools for digging and hauling and also several under-water firearms, for use against a possible enemy. In addition to the firearms, father and son had provided themselves with long and sharp knives.
"There is no telling what we may run across away down there," said Amos Fearless, in his sign language. "We are taking our lives in our hands, to my way of thinking."
And what he said was true—as events speedily proved.
Soon they passed through the darker portion of the ocean and knew that the first mile of the downward journey had been covered.
Then those above lowered more slowly and watched keenly for the first signal that danger might be encountered by those below.
"See, it is growing lighter," said Dave, presently, and turned off the electric lights.
His father had his hand upon the glass side of the diving bell.
"It is also growing warmer," motioned the parent, in his sign language.
A mile and a half had been covered and now the waters of the ocean were so clear and light that they could see for a hundred feet about them.