And this was exactly what happened. The flames had no effect on the Annihilator, whereas the electric cannons continued to mow down the Martians.
The day was now well advanced, and the defenders were getting tired and hungry, as well as apprehensive, for there seemed to be no limit to the fury of the little people, and their scientific knowledge was such that it was probably only a matter of time before they would find a way to destroy the projectile.
During a lull in the fighting, when the fire that had been kindled died away, Washington White came around with some food he had prepared.
They felt better after the meal, but immediately there came a new apprehension, for they saw that the Martians were digging a great hole to one side of the projectile.
"What can they be doing that for?" asked Andy. "Maybe they're going to roll us into it," said Mark.
"No," spoke Mr. Roumann, after watching the crowd at work, "I'm inclined to think they're laying a mine, and are going to blow us up."
"Blow us up?"
"Yes. They evidently have some explosive over there, to judge by the manner in which they guard it."
"Can we stand being blown up?" asked Jack.
"I hardly think so. The projectile itself might not be harmed, as it is very strong, but the machinery and motors would probably be damaged."