Even while it was still plashing about their ankles, a secret block of masonry slid back and a horde of Antillians burst in upon them.
What happened then, happened with a rush that left them dazed.
Unable to talk directly with the pigmies, by reason of their pressure-suits, which they dared not remove, they started gesturing with them, trying to explain their predicament and make known that they bore them no ill-will, but the creatures waved for them to cease and led them swiftly through the now waterless temple.
“Well, I guess it’s all up!” said Larry, adding with dismal humor: “They’re probably going to finish that meal they started feeding their dragon last night!”
No one laughed, nor made any comment, and he relapsed into silence, realizing that they probably held him responsible for this latest disaster.
Leaving the temple, their captors led them into a passage that was level for a time, then inclined sharply. It was laborious going but they struggled on.
“I believe they know we are not their enemies!” declared Professor Stevens, at length, to everyone’s cheer. “They seem to be leading us back to the plateau by some underground passage.”
“Let’s hope so!” said Larry. “Perhaps I had the right hunch after all.”
“But my poor Diane!” came the professor’s sorrowing after-thought. “That fiend Von Ullrich could never get the Nereid up safely.”