The “Ogden II” was beginning to glide downward. The engine, put under additional power, drowned the next words which Major Carroll flung toward them. But there was a strange tone to his voice which made the boys look at each other in surprise.
The explanation came an instant later.
The eagle, momentarily forgotten, shot into view so close beneath that its glittering eyes and cruel-looking beak could be clearly seen. Its magnificent, spreading wings were flapping furiously.
Almost breathless, the two watched the bird soaring still nearer. At intervals, it emitted a scream that sounded above the incessant din of the engine.
“Great Scott!” Bob gave a long breath; his nerves tingled with excitement. “It looks as though we’re in for a scrap.”
CHAPTER XX
OVER THE MOUNTAINS
With this new and startling situation confronting them, the boys’ attention was diverted from the “Border City,” now falling rapidly behind.
Many minutes passed—tense, anxious minutes. The eagle flew still closer; its menacing attitude increased. Cranny Beaumont drew his revolver from its holster; he was ready for instant action; but neither he nor Bob Somers had any desire to end the life of the magnificent bird unless its own misguided actions should render such a course absolutely necessary.
Momentarily expecting an attack, the boys could do nothing but patiently await the next move of their feathered foe. As the minutes passed without any change in the situation, Cranny twisted his head around, to see, over his shoulder, the “Border City.”
The air-ship was drifting high above them; and he noted that bags of sand were still being emptied one after another over its side.