"The Martians must study all the while," observed Mr. Henderson. "No wonder they have such big heads. All their intellectual faculties are wonderfully developed."
"At the expense of their arms, legs and bodies," said Jack. "I fancy I could fight half a dozen of their biggest men."
"But we're not going to," said Mr. Roumann. "At least, not as long as they treat us decently."
"And now for something to eat," added Henderson.
Their guide showed them a dining–room, where they found a table filled with food that looked very appetizing. The Martian motioned for them to eat.
"I want t' find where mah kitchen is goin' t' be," declared Washington. "If I'm goin' t' cook heah, I want t' see how I'm goin' t' do it."
The Martian seemed to understand what was wanted, for he led the way to another apartment, where it was evident that cooking was done, as there were pots, pans and what looked like a stove in it.
"But I don't see no coal," objected the colored man. "How I gwine t' cook without coal t' make a fire?"
The Martian opened the square iron box that seemed to be the stove. Inside was a small metal box, which he also opened, disclosing a lump of the red substance.
"They cook with it, too!" exclaimed Mr. Roumann. "And I have no doubt that they warm their houses with it in winter. A wonderful substance—most marvelous! It exceeds my wildest dreams—light, heat and power! Our fortunes are made! It is good that we came to Mars!"