"By subtracting ninety–two millions of miles, which is the distance from the earth to the sun, from the number of miles Neptune is away from the sun," said Mark.
"That's right," admitted Mr. Henderson. "You're very quick at figures, Mark."
"Well, let's get to Mars," said Jack. "Maybe Andy can find some new kind of game there."
"Me? I'm not going to any place so many millions of miles away from here," answered the old hunter, looking up from his plate. "It's good enough hunting here."
"Wait until you see," said Mr. Roumann with a smile. "I expect to find many marvels on Mars."
"If we get there," added Mr. Henderson.
"We'll get there," declared Mr. Roumann confidently. "As I said, I have long been interested in Mars, and one reason is that I want to prove that there is life on it—that it is inhabited by a superior race of beings. Another reason is that I expect to find on it a supply—or at least specimens—of a most valuable substance—"
Mr. Roumann stopped suddenly.
"Well?" asked Mr. Henderson questioningly, for there was an odd manner about the blue–eyed scientist.
"That is something I do not wish to speak about at present," said Mr. Roumann quickly. "I will tell you my other reason for going to Mars—when we get there."