At the last moment Stump had determined to accompany the party.
Captain Vindex was already there, and received them graciously.
"I wish you good-day, professor," he said; "and you, too, my boys. I think we shall enjoy some excellent sport among the sea otters and other animals worth killing. You, Dr. Woddle, will be able to add to your knowledge of natural history, for we are about to traverse a forest of remarkable seaweeds and plants, in which you will find all kinds of submarine life."
"I am obliged to you for your kindness, sir, and put myself entirely at your disposal," replied the professor.
At a signal from the captain, two negroes assisted our heroes to put on their apparel, and clothed them in thick waterproof made of India rubber, which formed trousers and vest, the trousers terminating in a pair of shoes with lead soles; a cuirass of leather protected the chest from the pressure of the water, and allowed the lungs full play.
Supple gloves covered the hands, the helmet was then put on, and the knapsack of compressed air adjusted on the back.
To each one was given a gun, the butt of which was of brass and hollow.
Here was stored the compressed air which discharged the electric bullets, one of which fell into its proper place just as the other had been shot away. The whole mechanism was perfect.
When all was ready they stepped into an empty cabin, the door closed behind them, and, touching a knob, the captain allowed the room to fill with water.
Then he opened a door and they walked out into the sea.