4 lew York City

CONTENTS

In Our Next Issue: Contents for May "DOCTOR HACKENSAWS SECRETS", by Clement Fezandie, by popular requests. A new and hitherto un- of the Earth A Trip to the Center published story of the great and illustrious Dr. Hacken- saw, which can not fail to hold your interest from start to finish. Mesmeric Revelation "THE RUNAWAY SKYSCRAPER", by Murray Lcin- Fourth Dimension, in which the great By Edgar Allan Poe ster, a story of the Metropolitan Life skyscraper in New York vanishes into the Fourth Dimension. One of the most surprising tales The Crystal Egg we have ever read. (This story was scheduled for the By H. G. Wells May issue, but had to make room for the Jules Verne

The Infinite Vision "THE SCIENTIFIC ADVENTURES OF MR. FOS- DICK", by Jack Morgan. Perhaps you did not know it, By Charles C. Winn - but there can be excellent humor in scieotifiction. One, most excruciatingly funny stories, which at From the Atom {Sequel) of the The Man same lime is an excellent piece of scientifiction, is By G. Peyton Wertenbaker [i:!td "Mr. Fosdick Invents the Seidl immobile."

"A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH"-', . Off On a Comet (Conclusion) Jules Verne, (second installment), wherein our heroes have now penetrated to subterranean depths and find a By Jules Verne ., tremendous number of surprises. "WHISPERING ETHER" by Charles S. Wolfe, a radio story that holds your interest and injects iiuite a few Illustrates this month's stoi new thoughts into a well-known subject. One of the Wells. This is a, supposed vi of t! plan greatest short stories we have ever seen. (This story by Mr. Cave through the Cry' Egg, from the eart also was due for publication in May, and was crowded Verne story, On a COPYRIGHT ACKNOWLEDGMENT out by the conclusion of the Jules "Off Comef). met", and "A Trip to the Center of the Another weird story by Edgar Allan Poe, which we copyright 1911, by Vincent Parke & Ci

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THE MAGAZINE OF SCIENTIFICTION

HUGO GERNSBACK, F.R.S., Editor

DR. T. O'CONOR SLOANE, M. A., Ph.D. ; Aaodau Editor Editorial and General Offices 53 Park Place. New York, N. Y.

Extravagant Fiction Today ------Cold Fact Ton THANK YOU! By HUGO GERNSBACK, F.R.S.

HE firstI issue of AMAZING STORIES and each time get something new from them."

4 been on the newsstands only about Michael II. Kay, Brooklyn, N, Y., says : "You will i week, as we go to press with this, the g"e!"ua'u(ly find that when one has read your magazine second issue of the magazine; yet, even he will become so enthusiastic, so elated over his during this short time, we have been discovery, that he will deem it a pleasure to extol its deluged with an avalanche of letters of virtues to his friends. Even now my wife is approval and constructive criticism fruni practically anxiously waiting for me to finish this first issue, so every section of the country, except the West—as that she may read it herself." we have not yet had time to hear from it. Lack of space precludes adding to the list in- We hereby take this medium to thank all our definitely. friends for their kind wishes and willingness to co- As to the future: Some very valuable suggestions operate with us. We sincerely regret that we cannot were made—upon which we have acted. There was answer each and every letter individually. There are quite a demand for "Dr. Hackensaw's Secrets." Act- simply too many letters—and we feel that our read- ing upon this demand, we will, beginning with our ers would rather we utilize our efforts in the im- next issue, print new and hitherto unpublished Dr. provement of the magazine. llackeusaw st-ocies. We have a good many of these After all, it is your paper, and we are striving famous stories by Clement Fezandie. Again, a good hard to please you. Judging from the various com- many of our readers want some of the stories of ments, the first issue of AMAZING STORIES was Edgar Rice Burroughs. Accordingly, we have con- just about right—the stories pleased and the length tracted for some, to be published in the future. of the shorter stories and the division of the long Among the newer works of which we have acquired ones seemed satisfactory. the publication rights are: "Die Macht der Drei" And it was with a feeling of gratification that we (The Might of the Three), one of the greatest—and noted the almost unanimous condemnation of the perhaps the greatest—recent scientific!, ion story; so-called "sex-appeal" type of story that seems so and "Feuer am Nordpol" (The North Pole Fire). much in vogue in this country now. Most of bur Both these works were published in Germany. correspondents seemed to heave a great sigh of re- We also obtained the rights to an excellent radio lief in at last finding a literature that appeals to the story—one of the finest that has ever been written imagination, rather than carrying a sensational ap- —"Station X", by G. MacLeod Winsor. peal to the emotions. It is that which justifies our "The Messiah of the Cylinder", by Victor Rous- new venture—our expenditure of time and money. seau is another tremendous story, and then, of The letters, extracts from which are printed be- course, there is H. G. Wells, with his "The War in low, seem to best express the general trend of the Air." opinion. There is only one thing that troubles us now: we Mr. George W. Anderson, of Fairmount, W. Va., have more good stories to publish than we have space in addition to giving us a good suggestion, saya: in which to publish them. And here is where you "Print all scientific facts its related in the stories, can help. During the next three or four months it in italics. This will serve to more forcefully drive is our intention to enlarge the magazine, but only an home the idea upon which you have established your increased circulation can make this possible. You magazine. Personally, wr hen I have some such sys- can do your share by making the magazine known tem blazing forth before my eyes I am inclined to among your friends. If you like AMAZING stop and consider what I have learned, for future STORIES, your friends will probably' like it too. reference." If each one of you who reads this could get one ". A. Lee Gladwin, of Ames, Iowa, writes: . . . friend to buy the next issue of AMAZING Amazing Stories is entertaining and has food for STORIES, we would immediately be able to in- thought that no other fiction work eould begin to crease the size of the magazine fifty per cent, and compete with." thereby give vou more material. Raymond E. Dickens, Air Mail Radio Station, The success of AMAZING STORIES is entirely Iowa City, Iowa, says: in your hands. We shall do our part—we pledge "I can read these stories over several times ourselves to do everything to merit your confidence. p/imvtothedmmoftheMmE

3 if- Jules Verne

half eaten away by the corrosive action of time, th« do you begin to have faith?" cried my uncle. It Was

Introduction to the Story

T TA VING won the attention of the -public with today ovr scientists would declare impossible. The J^J_ "Five Weeks in a Balloon," Jides Verne wrote interior of the earth is still unknown; and there in rapid success ion several- truly masterly tales. may well be rifts, passages, descending from ex- Of these remarkable- inventions of the human mind, tinct volcanoes and. penetrating far within. There "A Trip to the Center of the Earth" was the first may well be huge cavities, bubbles left in the cooling to be completed in its present form. It was -published mass, vast enough to harbor inland, seas, and shelter in 1864, in a series of books bij Verne-, denominated many of the ancient forms of life now extinct upon "Voyages Extraordinaires." This series, started in earth's surface. that year by the publisher Hetzel, has been continued The main scientific objection to this, as indeed to to recent times. most of the more fanciful of Verne's tales, lies in This particular "Voyage" has sometimes been de- the extravagant means he employs to bring his ex- clared our author's masterpiece. In it he for the plorers home again from their reckless ventures. first time gives free rein to that bold yet scientifical- But, es romance obviously demands their return ly exact imagination, whereby he. lias constructed for somehow, science discreetly accents in silence the us in fancy the entire universe. There is nothing astonishing accidents and coincidences in all the daring visions of this tale which, even they escape the doom they have invited. '

A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 101 and kept the knowledge he acquired to himself. There was a reason, and it may be regarded as a MAKES A GREAT DISCOVERY MY UNCLE good one, why my uncle objected to display his than was absolutely necessary; he OOKING back to all that has occurred to learning more whten intent upon explaining the me since that eventful day, I am scarce- stammered, and ly able to believe in the reality of my phenomena of the heavens, was apt to find himself adventures. They were truly so won- at fault, and allude in such a vague way to sun, derful that even now I am bewildered moon, and stars, that few were able to comprehend when I think of them. his meaning. To tell the honest truth, when the My uncle was a German, though I am English, right word would not come, it was generally re- he having married my mother's sister. Being very placed by a very powerful adjective. much attached to his fatherless nephew, he invited In connection with the sciences there are many me to study under him in his home in the father- almost unpronounceable names—names very much land. This home was in a large town, and my resembling those of Welsh villages; and my uncle uncle was a professor of philosophy, chemistry, being very fond of using them, his habit of stam- other ologies. geology, mineralogy, and many mering was not thereby improved. In fact, there One day, after passing some hours in the labora- were periods in his discourse when he would finally uncle being absent at the time—I sud- tory—my give up and swallow his discomfiture—in a glass of denly felt the necessity of renovating the tissues water. —i. e., I was hungry, and was about to rouse up our As I said, my uncle, Professor Hardwigg, was a old French cook, when my uncle, Professor Von learned man; and I now add, a most kind Hardwigg, suddenly opened the street door and very I was bound to him by the double ties of came rushing upstairs. relative. I took deep interest in all Now Professor Hardwigg, my worthy uncle, is affection and interest. doings, and hoped some day to be almost as by no means a bad sort of man; he is, however, his learned myself. It was a choleric and original. To _ __^^____^^____ be hear with him means to ^^SHHSH^^^BS rare thing for me to absent from his lectures. obey; and scarcely had his immortal story, "A Trip to the Center of the Like him, I preferred his heavy feet resounded JiVEarth", Jules Verne has quite outdone himself. Not mineralogy to all the within our joint domicile only was Jules Verne a waster of the imaginative tyPe calibre. Besides than he shouted for me of fiction, hut he was a scientist of high other sciences. My anxiety intimate knowledge geography, the customs upon him. this, his of was to gain real knowl- to attend various races, made it possible for and peculiarities of the edge of the earth. Geology "Harry—Harry—Hjarry" write with authority on any of these subjects. So Mm to and mineralogy were to I hastened to obey, but when, he takes -us to the center of the earth, via the route- Iceland, get the feeling that, somehow, the us the main objects of before I could reach his through we is real, and this, after all, is the test of any good life, and in connection room, jumping three steps story with these studies many at a time, he was stamp- Instead boring a hole into the bowels of the earth, of a fair specimen of ing his right foot upon the Jules Verne ivas probably the first to think of taking the ex- stone, chalk, or ore did landing. "Harry I" he reader to unexplored depths through the orifice of an correctly, that a dead crater we break with our ham- cried, in a frantic tone, tinct volcano. He argues, would prove not on!v the safest, but perhaps Ike best rmite mers. "are you coining up?" one has as yet explored the for such exploration. No But before I state the To tell the truth, at that very center of the earth; for at no time have we descend- the subject on which my uncle moment I was far more ed deeper than about a mile below the surface of that there may be wished to confer with me, interested in the question planet. Who knows, therefore, but tremendous discoveries ahead of the Iranian race, once we I must say a word about as to what was to con- penetrate into the area', depths of the globe? his personal appearance, stitute our dinner than in We have no right to assume that life in the interior of Alas ! my readers will see any problem of science; the earth is an impossibility. When our deep sea expedi- a very different portrait to me soup was more inter- tions come home with specimens of fish that live at the and under what appear to be unen- of him at a future time— esting than sodium, an bottom of the ocean, durable pressures, where logic would assume there could after he has gone through omelette more tempting harshly that there can be be no life, we should not i-ndoe the fearful adventures yet than arithmetic, and an is entrance no life in the depths of the earth. If there an to be related. artichoke of ten time3 to a great unexplored cavit\ within our planet, you are Living more value than any free to believe that some form of life exists ihere.^ My uncle was fifty years without light, and it is possible that amount of asbestos. But beings can get along old; tall, thin, and wiry. some sort of light of Hie phosphorescent order can be my uncle was not a man Large spectacles hid, to a found there. And, besides, nature has a trick all its own ad- certain extent, his vast, to he kept waiting; so of circumvent-in a impossibilities, as is well witnessed in round and goggle eyes, journing all minor ques- vtany deep sea "fish, in depths where no light ever pene- are equipped with luminous ir- tions, I presented myself trates, where many of them while his nose was before him. eyes and other light-giving organs. reverently compared to thin file. So much in- .. a He was a very learned HgH^HMBIE^MN^^ffl ~ man. Now, most persons deed did it resemble that pres- in this category supply themselves with informa- useful article, that a compass was said in his considerable deviation. The tion, as peddlers do with goods, for the benefit of ence to have made really others, and lay up stores in order to diffuse them truth being told, however, the only article abroad for the benefit of society in general. Not attracted to my uncle's nose was tobacco. that he always so my excellent uncle, Professor Hardwigg; he Another peculiarity of his wa3, if he studied, he consumed the midnight oil, he pored over stepped a yard at a time, clenched his fists as heavy tomes, and digested huge quartos and folios, yrere going to hit you, and was, when in one of his !

102 AMAZING STORIES peculiar humors, very far from a pleasant com- "About as easy as German?" was my insidious panion. remark. It is further necessary to observe, that he lived My uncle shrugged his shoulders. in a very nice house, in that very nice street, the "The Runic letters at all events," I said," "are KSnigstrasse in Hamburg. Though lying in the rather difficult of comprehension." center of a town, it was perfectly rural in its aspect "It is a Runic manuscript, the language of the —half wood, half bricks, with old-fashioned gables original population of Iceland, invented by Odin —one of the few old houses spared by the great fire himself," cried my uncle, angry at my ignorance. of 1842. When I say a nice house, I mean a hand- I was about to venture upon some misplaced joke some house—old,, tottering, and not exactly conform- on the subject, when a small scrap of parchment fell able to English notions: a house a little off the out of the leaves. Like a hungry man snatching perpendicular and inclined to fall into the neighbor- at a morsel of bread the Professor seized it. It was ing canal ; exactly the house for a wandering artist about five inches by three and was scrawled to depict; all the more that you could scarcely see over in the most extraordinary fashion. it for ivy and a magnificent old tree which grew The lines over the door. opening the next chapter are an exact facsimile of what was written on the My uncle was rich; his house was his own prop- venerable piece of parchment and have erty, and he had a considerable private income. To — wonderful importance, as they induced uncle to undertake my notion the best part of his possessions was his my the most won- god-daughter, Gretchen, who unfortunately was derful series of adventures which ever fell to the lot of human beings. away upon a visit on that momentous day. The unele looked old cook, the young lady, the Professor and I were My keenly at the document for the only inmates of his home. some moments then declared that it was Runic. The letters were similar to those I loved mineralogy, I loved geology. To me there in the book, but then what did they mean? This exactly was nothing better than pebbles—and if my uncle was what I had been in a little less of a fury, we should have wanted to know. been the happiest of families. To prove the ex- Now, as I had a strong conviction that the Runic alphabet cellent Hardwigg's impatience, I solemnly declare and dialect were simply an invention to that when the flowers in the drawing-room pots mystify poor human nature, I was delighted to And began to grow, he rose every morning at four that my unele knew as much about the matter as o'clock to make them grow quicker by pulling the I did—which was nothing. At all events, the leaves tremulous motion of his fingers made me think so. Having described my uncle, I will now give an "And yet," he muttered to himself, "it is old account of our interview. He received me in his Icelandic, I am sure of it." study ; a perfect museum, containing every natural My uncle ought to have known, for he was a curiosity that can well be imagined—minerals, how- perfect polyglot dictionary in himself. He did not ever, predominating. Every one was familiar to pretend, like a certain learned pundit, to speak me, having catalogued each by my own hand. My the two thousand languages and four thousand unele, apparently oblivious of the fact that he had idioms made use of in different parts of the globe, summoned me to his presence, was absorbed in a but he did know all the more important ones. book. He was particularly fond of early editions, It is a matter of great doubt to me now, to what tall copies, and unique works. violent measures my uncle's impetuosity might have "Wonderful!" he cried, tapping his forehead. led him, had not the clock struck two, and our old "Wonderful wonderful!" It was one of those yel- — French cook called out to let us know that dinner low-leaved volumes now rarely found on stalls, and was on the table. to me it appeared to possess but little value. My "Bother the dinner!" cried my uncle. But I uncle, however, was in raptures. He admired its was hungry, so I sallied forth to the dining-room, binding, the clearness of its characters, the ease where I took up my usual quarters. Out of politeness I with which it opened in his hand, and repeated waited three minutes, but no sign of my uncle, the aloud, half-a-dozen times, that it was very, very Professor. I was surprised. old. He was not usually so blind to the pleasure of a good dinner. It To my fancy he was making a great fuss about was the acme of German luxury parsley soup, a ham nothing, but it was not my province to say so. On — omelette with sorrel trimmings, veal stewed with the contrary, I professed considerable interest in prunes, delicious fruit, and sparkling Moselle. For the subject, and asked him what it was about. the sake of poring over that musty old piece of "It is the Heims-Kringla of Snorre SturJasson," he parchment, my uncle forhore share said, "the celebrated Icelandic author of the twelfth to our meal. To satisfy my conscience, I ate for both. century—it is a true and correct account of the Nor- wegian princes who reigned in Iceland." The old cook and housekeeper was nearly out of My next question related to the language in her mind. After taking so much trouble, to find that which it was written. I hoped at all events it was her master did not appear at dinner was a sad translated into German. My uncle was indignant at disappointment—which as she watched the havoc I the very thought, and declared he wouldn't ghte a was making on the viands, became also alarm. If penny for a translation. His delight was to have my uncle were to come to table after all? found the original work in the Icelandic tongue, Suddenly, just as I had consumed the last apple which he declared to be one of the most magnificent and drunk the last glass of wine, a terrible voice and yet simple idioms in the world—while at the was heard at no great distance. It was my uncle same time its grammatical combinations were the roaring for me to come to him. I made it in very most varied known to students. nearly one leap—so loud, so fierce was his tone. •A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 103

CHAPTES II his spectacles, and, taking a powerful magnifying glass, examined the book carefully. On the fly leaf THE MYSTERIOUS PARCHMENT was what appeared at first to be a blot of ink, but on examination proved to be a line of writing almost H-M-rlbi^ effaced by time. This was what he sought. After MTHHYF considerable time, he made out these letters: ri\11Yk 11-/K1T+T* •id &b,UK. Kh-1 + K^ Aihl (-hi •foh11A I+11BH livkt WkhhW rrbAYi FA-IK-Th "Arne Saknussem!" he cried in a joyous and bt-. ii r triumphant tone, "that is not only an Icelandic tl+IBfe name, but the name of a learned professor of the sixteenth century, a celebrated alchemist." declare," cried my uncle, striking the table «T I bowed as a sign of respect. I fiercely with his fist, "I deelare to you it is "These alchemists," he continued, "Avicena, Runic and contains some wonderful secret, J_ — Bacon, Lully, Paracelsus, were the true, the only which I must get at, at any price." learned men of the day. They made surprising dis- I about to reply, when he stopped me. "Sit was coveries. May not this Saknussem, nephew mine, quite fiercely, "and write to down," he said, my have hidden on this bit of parchment some astound- dictation." ing invention? I believe the cryptograph to have I obeyed. "I will substitute," he said, "a letter of a profound meaning—which I must make out." our alphabet for that of the Runic: we will then My uncle walked about the room in a state of will produce. Now, begin and make see what that excitement almost impossible to describe. no mistakes." "It may be so, sir," I timidly observed, "but why The dictation commenced with the following in- conceal it from posterity, if it be a useful, a worthy comprehensible result : — discovery?" "Why how should I know? Did not Galileo m.rnlls esruel seecJde — make secret of his discoveries in connection with sgtssmf imteief niedrhe a Saturn? But we shall see. Until I discover the kt,samw atrateS Saodmi meaning of this sentence I will neither eat nor, emtnael n-uaect rrilSa, sleep." Atvaar .nscTo ieaabs "My dear uncle " I began. ccdrmi eeittut frantw "Nor you either," he added. It was lucky I dt,iac oseibo Kediil had taken double allowance that day. Scarcely giving me time to finish, my uncle "In the first place," he continued, "there must be Snatched the document from my hands and ex- a clue to the meaning. If we eould find that, the amined it with the most rapt and deep attention. rest would be easy enough." "I should like to know what it means," he said, I began seriously to reflect. The prospect of after a long period. going without food and sleep was not a promising I certainly could not tell him, nor did he expect one, so I determined to do my best to solve the ine to—his conversation being uniformly answered mystery. My uncle, meanwhile, went on with his by himself. soliloquy. "I declare it puts me in mind of a cryptograph," "The way to discover it is easy enough. In this he cried, "unless, indeed, the letters have been document there are one hundred and thirty-two let- written without any real meaning; and yet why ters, giving seventy-nine consonants to fifty-three take so much trouble? Who knows but I may be vowels. This is about the proportion found in most on the verge of some great discovery?" southern languages, the idioms of the north being My candid opinion was that it was all rubbish! much more rich in consonants. We may confidently But this opinion I kept carefully to myself, as my predict, therefore, that we have to deal with a uncle's eholer was not pleasant to bear. All this southern dialect." time he was comparing the book with the parch- Nothing could be more logical. ment. "Now," said Professor Hardwigg, "to trace the "The manuscript volume and the smaller docu- particular language." ment are written in different hands," he said, "the "As Shakespeare says, 'that is the question,"* cryptograph is of much later date than the book; was my rather satirical reply. there is an undoubted proof of the correctness of "This man Saknussem," he continued, "was a my surmise. The first letter is a double M, which very learned man: now as he did not write in the was only added to the Icelandic language in the language of his birth-place, he probably, like most twelfth century—this makes the parchment two learned men of the sixteenth century, wrote in hundred years posterior to the volume." Latin. If, however, I prove wrong in this guess, The circumstances appeared very probable and we must try Spanish, French, Italian, Greek, and very logical, but it was all surmise to me. even Hebrew. My own opinion, though, is decidedly in favor of Latin." "To me it appears probable that this sentence was written by some owner of the book. Now who This proposition startled me. Latin ' was my favorite study, it sacrilege to believe was the owner, is the next important question. Per- and seemed gibberish belong the country of Virgil. haps by great good luck it may be .written some- this to to where in the volume." "Barbarous Latin, in all probability," continued With these words Professor Hardwigg took off my uncle, "but still Latin." — 104 AMAZING STORIES

"Very probably," I replied, not to contradict him. and still thinking of the absurd bit of hieroglyphics. "Let ua see into the matter," continued my uncle; Would he hit upon some clue? Would he come "here you see we have a series of one hundred and home in better humor? While these thoughts were thirty-two letters, apparently thrown pell-mell upon passing through my brain, I mechanically took up paper, without method or organization. There are the execrable puzzle and tried every imaginable words which are composed wholly of consonants, way of grouping the letters. I put them together by such as m.rnlls, others which are nearly all vowels, twos, by threes, fours, and fives—in vain. Nothing the fifth, for instance, which ia unteief, and one of intelligible came out, except that the fourteenth, the last oseibo. This appears an extraordinary com- fifteenth and sixteenth made ice in English; the bination. Probably we shall find that the phrase is eighty-fourth, eighty-fifth and eighty-sixth, the arranged according to some mathematical plan. No word sir; then at last I seemed to find the Latin doubt a certain sentence has been written out and words rota, mutabile, ira, nee, atra. then jumbled up—some plan to which some figure "Ha ! there seems to be some truth in my uncle's is the clue. Now, Harry, to show your English notion," thought I. wit— is that what figure?" Then again I seemed to find the word luco, which I could give no hint. him My thoughts were means saered grove. Then in the third line I ap- indeed far away. While he was speaking I had peared to make out labiled, a perfect Hebrew word, caught sight of portrait a of my cousin Gretchen, and at last the syllables mere, art, mer, which were and was wondering when she would return. We were French. It was enough to drive one mad. Four affianced, and loved one another very sincerely. But different idioms in this absurd phrase. What con- uncle, never my who thought of such sublunary mat- nection could there be between ice, sir, anger, cruel, ters, knew nothing of this. Without noticing my sacred grove, changing, mother, art and sea? The abstraction, the Professor began reading the puz- first and the last might, in a sentence connected zling cryptograph all sorts of ways, according to with Iceland, mean sea of ice. But what of the rest some theory of his own. Presently, rousing my of this monstrous cryptograph? wandering attention, he dictated one precious at- I was, in fact, fighting against an insurmountable tempt to me. difficulty; my brain was almost on fire; my eyes I mildly handed it over to him. It read as were strained with staring at the parchment; the : follows whole absurd collection of letters appeared to dance messunkaSenrA.icefdoK.segnittamurtn before my vision in a number of black little groups. ecertSMTetU/f'jl-aivutxliia.r-hwcsedsadne My mind was possessed with temporary hallucina- lacartniiil v JmratracSarbmutabiledmek tion—I was stifling. I wanted air. Mechanically meretarcsilucolsleff enSnl. I fanned myself with the document, of which I saw I could scarcely keep from laughing while my first the back and then the front. uncle, on the contrary, got into a towering passion, Imagine my surprise, when glancing at the back struck the table with his fist, darted out of the room, of the wearisome puzzle, the ink having gone out of the house and then taking to his heels was through, I clearly made out Latin words, and among presently lost to sight. others craterem and terrestre. I had discovered the secret! It came upon roe like a flash of lightning. I had got the clue. All CHAPTER III you had to do to understand the document^was to AN ASTOUNDING DISCOVERY read it backwards. All the ingenious ideas of the Professor were realized; he had dictated it rightly THAT is the matter?" cried the cook, en- to me ; by a mere accident I had discovered what he tering the room; "when will master have so much desired. "W*his dinner?" My delight, my emotion may be imagined. My "Never." eyes were dazzled and I trembled so that at first I ?" "And, his supper could make nothing of it. One look, however, would "I don't know. He says he will eat no more, tell me all I wished to know. neither shall I. My uncle has determined to fast "Let me read," I said to myself, after drawing a and make me fast until he reads this abominable long breath. I spread it before me on the table, I inscription," I replied. passed my finger over each letter, I spelt it through; "You will be starved to death," she said. in my excitement I read it out. I was very much of the same opinion, but not What horror and stupefaction took possession of liking to say so, sent her away, and began some of my soul. I was like a man who had received a my usual work of classification. But busy as I made knock-down blow. Was it possible that I really myself, nothing could keep me from thinking al- read the terrible secret, and it had really been ac- ternately of the stupid manuscript and of the pretty complished! A man had dared to do—what? Gretchen. No living being should ever know "Never!" cried Several times I was tempted to go out, but my I, jumping up; "Never shall my uncle be made uncle would have been angry at my absence. At the aware of the dread secret. He would be quite end of an hour, my allotted task was done. How capable of undertaking the terrible journey. Noth- to pass the time? I began by lighting my pipe. Like ing would check him, nothing stop him. Worse, he all other students, I delighted in tobacco; and, would compel me to accompany him, and we should seating myself in the great armchair, I began to be lost forever. No ; such folly and madness cannot meditate. be allowed." Where was my uncle? I could easily imagine I was almost beside myself with rage and fury. him tearing along some solitary road, gesticulating, "My worthy uncle is already nearly mad," I cried talking to himself, cutting the air with his cane, aloud. "This would finish him. By some accident — A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 105 counting aud writing; his he may make the discovery, in which case, we are My uncle continued imagination seemed to have transported him to the both lost. Perish the fearful secret—let the flames thought neither of eating nor drinking. forever bury it in oblivion. skies. He In this way twelve o'clock came around. I was I snatched up book and parchment, and was about and there was nothing in the house. The to cast them into the fire, when the door opened and hungry, had eaten the last hit of bread. This could not my uncle entered. I had scarcely time to put down cook o'clock sensations were terrible. the wretched documents before my uncle was by my go on. At two my began to think the document is very ab- side. He was profoundly absorbed. His thoughts After all I Besides, were evidently bent on the terrible parchment. surd. Perhaps it is only a gigantic hoax. Some new combination had probably struck him some means could surely be found to keep my uncle such absurd expedition. while taking his walk. He seated himself in his back from attempting any attempt anything so arm-chair, and with a pen began to make an alge- On the other hand, if he should compelled to accompany him. braical calculation. I watched him with anxious quixotic, I could not be of reasoning partially decided me. eyes. My flesh crawled as his discovery of the se- Another line would make the discovery himself cret became probable. I having discovered the only Very likely he I should have suffered starvation for nothing. clue, I knew his combinations were useless. For when reasoning ap- three mortal hours he continued without speaking Under the influence of hunger this a word, without, raising his head, scratching, re- peared admirable. I determined to tell all. as to it was to be writing, calculating over and over again. I knew The question now arose how dwelling on the thought when be that in time he must hit upon the right phrase. The done. I was still his hat. What I go out and lock us letters of every alphabet have only a certain number rose and put on of combinations. But then years might elapse be- in? Never! began. fore he would arrive at the correct solution. "Uncle," I the He did not appear even to hear me. Still time went on ; night came, the sounds in "Professor Hardwigg," I cried. streets ceased—and still my uncle went on, not even answering our worthy cook when she called us to "What," he retorted, "did you speak?" the supper. I did not dare to leave him, so waved her "How about key?" key the key of the door?" away, and at last fell asleep on the sofa. "What — of these horrible hieroglyphics." When I awoke, my uncle was still at work. His "No— at me from under his spectacles, and red eyes, his paliid countenance, his matted hair, He looked started at the odd expression of my face. Rushing his feverish hands, his hecticly flushed cheeks, keenly ex- showed how terrible had been his struggle with the forward, he clutched me by the arm and countenance. His very look an in- impossible, and what fearful fatigue he had under- amined my was gone during that long sleepless night. It made me terrogation. I simply nodded. With an incredulous shrug of the shoulders, he quite ill to look at him. Though he was rather se- heel. Undoubtedly he thought I vere with me, I loved him, and my heart ached at turned upon his his sufferings. He was so overcome by one idea that had gone mad. "I have made a very important discovery." he could not even get into a passion 1 All his ener- flashed with excitement. His hand was gies were focussed on one point. And I knew that Hia eyes in a menacing attitude. Tor a moment by speaking one little word all this suffering would lifted neither of us spoke. It is hard to say which was cease. I could not speak it. My heart was, nevertheless, inclining towards most excited. don't to say that have any idea of him. Why, then, did I remain silent? In the in- "You mean you meaning of the scrawl?" terest of my uncle himself. "Nothing shall make the "I do," was my desperate reply. "Look at the me speak," I muttered. "He will want to follow in sentence as dictated by you." the footsteps of the other! I know him well. His "Well, but it means nothing," was the angry imagination is a perfect volcano, and to make dis- coveries in the interests of geology he would sacri- therefore be silent and strictly "Nothing if you read from left to right, but mark, fice his life. I will " if from right to left keep the secret I have discovered. To reveal it would "Backwards!" cried uncle, in wild amazement. be suicidal. He would not only himself rush to de- my cunning Saknussem; and I to be such a struction, hut drag me with him." I crossed my "Oh most snatched up the document, gazed at arms, looked another way and smoked—resolved blockhead." He with haggard eye, and read it out as I had never to speak. it follows: When our cook wanted to go out to market, or done. It read as Iocv.Ur crater em kem delebat on any other errand, she found the front door locked In Sneffels Sear'aris Jvlii intra calendas c and the key taken away. Was this done purposely Umbra terrestre centrum attinges. or not? Surely Professor Hardwigg did not in- Audas viator, et Arne Saknussem. tend the old woman and myself to become martyrs Kod feci. Which dog-Latin being translated, read as fol- to his obstinate will. Were we to he starved to Sneffels, : "Descend into the crater of Yokul of death? A frightful recollection came to my mind. lows the shade of Scartaris covers, before the Once we had fed on bits and scraps for a week while which of July, audacious traveler, and you will he sorted some curiosities. It gave me the cramp kalends reach the center of the earth. I did it. even to think of it! "Arne Saknussem." I wanted my breakfast, and I saw no way of from the ground with getting it. Still my resolution held good. I would My uncle leaped three feet rushed starve rather than yield. But the cook began to joy. He looked radiant and handsome. He satisfaction. take me seriously to task. What was to he done? about the room wild with delight and tables chairs. He threw his She could not go out; and I dared not. He knocked over and —"

106 AMAZING STORIES books about until at last utterly exhausted, he fell I rose, went to the shelf, and presently returned into his arm-chair. "What's o'clock?" he asked. with the volume indicated. "About three." "This," said my uncle, "is one of the best maps "My dinner does not seem to have done me much of Iceland, I believe it will settle all your doubts, good," he observed, "Let me have something to eat. difficulties and objections." We can then start at once. Get my portmanteau With a grim hope to the contrary, I stooped over, ready." the map. "What for?" . "And your own," he continued. "We start at CHAPTER IV once." START ON THE JOURNEY My horror may be conceived. I resolved how- WE ever to show no fear. Scientific were reasons the "OU see, the whole island is made up of volca- only ones likely to influence my uncle. And there noes, "said the Professor, "and note that they were many against this terrible journey. The very X alall bear the name of yokul. The word is Ice- idea of going down to the center of the earth was landic, and means glacier. In most of the lofty moun- simply absurd. I determined therefore to argue the tains of that region the volcanic eruptions come- point after dinner. forth from ice-bound caverns. Hence the name ap- My uncle's rage was now directed against the plied to every volcano on this extraordinary island." cook for having no dinner ready. My explanation, "But what does this word Sneffels mean?" however, satisfied him, and giving her the key she To this question I expected no rational answer. soon managed to get sufficient to satisfy our vora- I was mistaken. "Follow my finger to the western cious appetites. coast of Iceland, there you see Reykjawik, its During the repast my uncle was rather gay than capital. Follow the direction of one of its innumer- otherwise. He made some of those peculiar jokes able fjords or arms of the sea, and what do you which belong exclusively to the learned. As soon, see below the sixty-fifth degree of latitude?" however, as dessert was over, he called me to his "A peninsula—very like a thigh-bone in shape study. We each took a chair on opposite sides of "And in the center of it—=?" the table. "A mountain." "Henry," he said, in a soft and winning voice; "Well, that's Sneffels." "I have always believed you ingenious, and you have I had nothing to say. rendered me a service never to be forgotten. Without "That is Sneffels—a mountain about five thou- you, this great, this wondrous discovery would sand feet in height, one of the most remarkable never have been made. It is my duty, therefore, in the whole island, and certainly doomed to be to insist on your sharing the glory." the most celebrated in the world, for through its "He is in a good humor," thought I; "I'll soon crater we shall reach the Center of the Earth." let him know my opinion of glory." "Impossible!" cried I, startled and shocked at "In the first place," he continued, "you must the thought. keep the whole affair a profound secret. There is "Why impossible?" said Professor Hardwigg in no more envious race of men than scientific dis- his severest tones. coverers. Many would start on the same journey. "Because its crater is choked with lava, by burn* At all events, we will be the first in the field." ing rocks—by infinite dangers." "But if it be extinct?" "I doubt your having many competitors," was my "That would make difference." reply. a "Of course it would. There are about three hun- "A man of real scientific acquirements would be dred volcanoes on the whole surface of the globe delighted at the chance. We should find a perfect but the greater number are extinct. Of these stream of pilgrims on the traces of Arne Sak- Sneffels is one. No eruption has occurred since nussem, if this document were once made public." 1219—in fact it has ceased to be a volcano at all." "But my dear sir, is not this paper very likely After this what more could I say? Yes—I thought to be a hoax?" I urged. of another objection. "But what is all this about book in which find it is sufficient proof "The we Scartaris and the kalends of July ?" of its authenticity," he replied. My uncle reflected deeply. Presently he gave celebrated Professor "I thoroughly allow that the forth the result of his reflections in a sententious line, but only, I believe, as kind of wrote the a tone. "What appears obscure to you, to me is light. mystification," was my answer. This very phrase shows how particular Saknussem Scarcely were the words out of my mouth, when is in his directions. The Sneffels' mountain has I was sorry I had uttered them. My uncle looked many craters. He is careful therefore to point at me with a dark and gloomy scowl, and I began out the exact one which is the highway into the to be alarmed for the results of our conversation. Interior of the Earth. He lets us know, for this His mood soon changed, however, and a smile took purpose, that about the end of the month of June, the place of a frown. "We shall see," he remarked, the shadow of Mount Scartaris falls upon the with a decisive emphasis. one crater. There can be no doubt about the matter." "But see, what is all this about yokul, and My uncle had an answer for everything. "I ac- Sneffels, and this Scartaris? I have never heard cept all your explanations," I said, "and Saknussem anything about them." is right. He found out the entrance to the bowels "The very point to which I am coming. I lately of the earth, he has indicated correctly, but that he received from my friend, Augustus Peterman, of or anyone else ever followed up the discovery, is Leipzig, a map. Take down the third atlas from to the second shelf, series Z, plate 4." "Why so, young man?" A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 107

"All scientific teaching, theoretical and practical, packing up. He was pulling and hauling at a bell. shows it to be impossible." "Where have you been wasting your time? Your "I care nothing for theories," retorted my uncle. portmanteau is not packed—my papers are not in "But is it not well-known that heat increases order—the precious tailor has not brought my one degree for every seventy feet you descend into clothes, nor my gaiters—the key of my carpet bag the earth? which gives a fine idea of the central is gone!" heat. All the matters which compose the globe are I looked at him stupefied. And still he tugged in a state of incandescence ; even gold, platinum, and away at the bell. "We are really off, then?" I said. the hardest rocks are in a state oi fusion. What "Yes—of course, and yet you go out for a stroll, would become of us?" unfortunate boy!" "Don't be alarmed at the heat, my boy." "And when do we go?" "How so?" "The day after to-morrow, at daybreak." "Neither you nor anybody else knows anything I heard no more; but darted off to my little about the real state of the earth's interior. All bedchamber and locked myself in. There was no modern experiments tend to explode the older doubt about it now. My uncle had been hard at theories. Were any such heat to exist, the upper work all the afternoon. The garden was full of crust of the earth would be shattered to atoms, ropes, rope-ladders, torches, iron .clamps, crow-bars, and the world would be at an end." alpenstocks, and pickaxes—enough to load ten men. A long, learned and not uninteresting discussion I passed a terrible night. I was called early the followed, which ended in this: "I do not believe in. next day to learn that the resolution of my uncle the dangers and difficulties which you, Harry, seem was unchanged and irrevocable. I also found my to multiply ; and the only way to learn, is like Arne cousin and affianced wife as warm on the subject Saknussem, to go and see." as was her father. "Well," cried I, overcome at last, "let us go and Next day, at five o'clock in the morning, the post- see. Though how we can do that in the dark is chaise was at the door. Gretchen and the old cook another mystery." received the keys of the house; and, scarcely paus- "Fear nothing. We shall overcome these, and ing to wish anyone good-bye, we started on our many other difficulties. Besides, as we approach the adventurous journey into the center of the Earth. " Center, I expect to find it luminous "Nothing is impossible." CHAPTER "And now that we have come to a thorough under- V Standing, not a word to any living soul. Our suc- FIRST LESSONS IN CLIMBING cess depends on secrecy and despatch." Thus ended our memorable conference, which AT Altona, a suburb of Hamburg, is the Chief roused a perfect fever in me. Leaving ray uncle, I ii Station of the Kiel railway, which was to take went forth like one possessed. Reaching the banks -L i.us to the shores of the Belt; and exactly at 7 of the Elbe, I began to think. Was all I had heard o'clock we were seated opposite each other in a first- really and truly possible? Was my uncle in his class railway carriage. My uncle said nothing. He sober senses, and could the interior of the earth was too busy examining his papers, among which of be reached? Was I the victim of a madman, or course was the famous parchment, and some letters was he a discoverer of rare courage and grandeur of introduction from the Danish eonsul, which were of conception? to pave the way to an introduction to the Governor To a certain extent I was anxious to be off. I of Iceland. In three hours we reached Kiel, and was afraid my enthusiasm would cool. I determined our baggage was at once transferred to the steamer. to pack up at once. At the end of an hour, how- ,We had now a day before us, a delay of about ever, on my way home, I found that my feelings ten hours, which fact put my uncle in a towering had very much changed. "I'm all abroad," I cried; passion. We had nothing to do but to walk about "it's a nightmare—I must have dreamt it." the pretty town and bay. At last, however, we went At this moment I came face to face with on board, and at half past ten were steaming down Gretchen, whom I warmly embraced. "So you have the Great Belt. The next morning we reached come to meet me," she said; "how good of you, Copenhagen, where, scarcely taking time for' re- But what is wrong with you?" freshment, my uncle hurried out to present one of Well, it was no use mincing the matter. I .told his letters of introduction. It was to the director her all. She listened with awe, and for some of the Museum of Antiquities, who having been in- minutes she could not speak. "Well?" I at last asked, formed that we were tourists bound for Iceland, did rather anxiously. all he could to assist us. One wretched hope sus- "What a magnificent journey. If I were only a tained me now. Perhaps no vessel was bound for man! A journey worthy of the nephew of Pro- such distant parts. fessor Hardwigg. I should look upon it as an Alas! a little Danish schooner, the Valkyrie, was honor to accompany him." to sail on the second of June for Reykjawik. The "My dear Gretchen, I thought you would be the captain, M. Bjarne, was on board, and was rather first to cry out against this mad enterprise." surprised at the energy and cordiality with which "No; on the contrary, I glory in it. It is magnifi- his future passenger shook him by the hand, To cent, splendid—an idea worthy of my father. Harry him a voyage to Iceland was merely a matter of Lawson, I envy you." course. My uncle, on the other hand, considered the This was, as it were, conclusive. The final blow event of sublime importance. The honest sailor took of all. advantage of the Professor's enthusiasm to double When we entered the house we found my uncle the fare. surrounded by workmen and porters, who were "On Tuesday morning at seven o'clock be on AMAZING STORIES

board," said M. B.jarne, handing us our receipts." while the steeple, the weathercock, and our two !" "Excellent ! Capital ! Glorious remarked my selves were carried swiftly along. Par away on uncle as we sat down to a late breakfast; "refresh one side could be seen the grassy plain, while on yourself, my boy, and we will take a run through the other lay the sea bathed in translucent light. the town," The Sund, or Sound as we call it, could be discovered Our meal concluded we went to the Kongens-Nye- beyond the point of Elsinore, crowded with white Torv; to the king's magnificent palace; to the beau- sails, which, at that distance, looked like the wings tiful bridge over the canal near the Museum ; to the of sea-gulls; while to the east could be discerned immense cenotaph of Thorwaldsen with its hideous the far-off coast of Sweden. The whole appeared a

naval groups ; to the castle of Rosenborg ; and to all magic panorama. the other lions of the place,—none of which my Faint and bewildered as I was, there was no uncle even saw, so absorbed was he in his antici- remedy for it. Rise and stand up I must. Despite pated triumphs. my protestations my first lesson lasted quite an But one thing struck his fancy, and that was a hour. When, nearly two hours later, I reached the certain singular church steeple situated on the bosom of mother earth, I was like a rheumatic old Island of Amak, which is the south-east quarter of man bent double with pain. "Enough for one day," the city of Copenhagen. My uncle at once ordered said my uncle, rubbing his hands, "we will begin me to turn my steps that way. This church exhibited again to-morrow." nothing remarkable in itself; in fact, the worthy There was no remedy. My lessons lasted five days, Professor had only been attracted to it by one cir- and at the end of that period, I ascended blithely cumstance, which was, that its rather elevated enough, and found myself able to look down into the steeple started from a circular platform, after depths below without winking, and even with some which there was an exterior staircase, which wound degree of pleasure. round to the very summit. "Let us ascend," said my uncle. "But I never could elimb church towers," I cried, CHAPTER VI "I am subject to dizziness in my head." OUR VOYAGE TO ICELAND "The very reason why you should go up. I want to cure you of a bad habit." hour of departure at last. " came The night "But my good sir THEbefore, the worthy Mr. Thompson brought us "I tell you to come. What is the use of wasting the most cordial letters of introduction for so much valuable time?" Count Trampe, Governor of Iceland, for Mr. Pie- It was impossible to dispute the dictatorial com- tursson, coadjutor to the bishop, and for M. Finsen, mands of my uncle. I yielded with a groan. On mayor of the town of Reykjawik. In return, my payment of a fee, a verger gave us the key. He, uncle nearly crushed his hands, so warmly did he for one, was not partial to the ascent. My uncle shake them. at once showed me the way, running up the steps On the second of the month, at two in the morn- like a school-boy. I followed as well as I could, ing, our precious cargo of luggage was taken on though no sooner was I outside the tower, than my board the good ship Valkyrie. We followed, and head began to swim. There was nothing of the were very politely introduced by the captain to a eagle about me. The earth was enough for me, and small cabin with two standing bed places, neither no ambitious desire to soar ever entered my mind. very well ventilated nor very comfortable. But in Still things did not go badly until I had ascended the cause of science men are expected to suffer. 150 steps, and was near the platform. Then I "Well, and have we a fair wind?" cried my uncle, began to feel the rush of cold air. I could scarcely in his most mellifluous accents. stand, but clutching the railings, I looked upwards. "An excellent wind!" replied Captain Bjarne; The railings were frail enough, but they seemed "we shall leave the Sound, going free with all sails good compared to those which skirted the terrible set." A few minutesa afterwards, the schooner winding staircase, that appeared, from where I started before the wind, under all the canvas she stood, to ascend to the skies. could carry, and entered the channel. An hour "Now then, Harry." later, the capital of Denmark seemed to sink into "I can't do it!" I cried, in accents of despair. the waves, and we were at no great distance from "Are you, after all, a coward, sir?" said my the coast of Elsinore. My uncle was delighted; uncle in a pitiless tone. "Go up, I say!" for myself, moody and dissatisfied, I appeared al- To this there was no reply possible. And yet the most to expect a glimpse of the ghost of Hamlet. keen air acted violently on my nervous system; sky, "Sublime madman," thought I, "you doubtless, earth, all seemed to swim round; while the steeple would approve our proceedings. You might per- rocked like a ship. My legs gave way like those haps even follow us to the center of the earth, of a drunken man. I crawled upon my hands and there to resolve your eternal doubts." knees; I hauled myself up slowly, crawling like a "How long will the voyage last?" asked my uncle. snake. Presently I closed my eyes, and allowed my- "Well, I should think about ten days," replied self to be dragged upwards. the skipper, "unless, indeed, we meet with some "Look around you," said my uncle, in a stern north-east gales among the Faroe Islands." voice, "heaven knows what profound abysses you "At all events, there will be no very considerable may have to look down. This is excellent practice." delay," cried the impatient Professor. Slowly, and shivering all the while with cold, I "No, Mr. Hardwigg," said the captain, "no fear opened my eyes. What then did I see? My first of that. At all events, we shall get there some glance was upwards at the cold fleecy clouds, which day." as by some optical delusion appeared to stand still, The voyage offered no incident worthy of record. ! —!

A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 109

call I bore it very well, but my uncle to his great an- Trampe placed himself entirely at the beck and noyance, and even shame, was remarkably sea-sick of Professor Hardwigg. This ma! de iner troubled him the more, that it pre- My uncle was also most graciously received by vented him from questioning Captain Bjarne as to M. Finsen, the mayor, who as far as costume went, the subject of Sneffels, as to the means of com- was quite as military as the governor, but also from munication, and the facilities of transport. All character and occupation quite as pacific. As for these explanations he had to adjourn to the period his coadjutor, M. Pietursson, he was absent on an of his arrival. His time meanwhile, was spent lying episcopal visit to the northern portion of the in bed groaning, and dwelling anxiously on the diocese. We were therefore compelled to defer th^ hoped-for termination of the voyage. I did not pleasure of being presented to him. His absence pity him. however, was compensated by the presence of M. On the eleventh day we sighted Cape Portland, Fridriksson, Professor of Natural Science in the over which towered Mount Myrdals Yokul, which, College of Reykjawik, a man of invaluable ability. the weather being clear, we made out very readily. This modest scholar spoke no languages save Ice- The cape itself is nothing but a huge mount of landic and Latin. When, therefore, he addressed granite standing naked and alone to meet the At- himself to me in the language of Horace, we at lantic waves. The Valkyrie kept off the coast, steer- once came to understand one another. He was, in ing to the westward. On all sides were to be seen fact, the only person that I did thoroughly under- whole "schools" of whales and sharks. After some stand during the whole period of my residence on hours we came in sight of a solitary rock in the this benighted island. ocean, forming a mighty vault, around which the Out of three rooms of which his house was com- foaming waves poured with intense fury. The islets posed, two were placed at our service, and in a few of Westman appeared to leap from the ocean, being hours we were installed with all our baggage, the so low in the water as scarcely to be seen, until amount of which rather astonished the simple in- you were right upon them. From that moment the habitants of Reykjawik. schooner was steered to the westward in order to "Now, Harry," said my uncle, rubbing his hands, round Cape Reykjaness, the western point of "all goes well, the worst difficulty is now over." Iceland. "How the worst difficulty over?" I cried in fresh My uncle, to his great disgust, was unable even amazement. to crawl on deck, so heavy a sea was on, and thus "Doubtless. Here we are in Iceland. Nothing lost the first view of the Land of Promise. Forty- more remains but to descend into the bowels of the eight hours later, after a storm which drove us earth." far to sea under hare poles, we came once more in "Well, sir, to a certain extent you are right. Wei sight of land, and were boarded by a pilot, who, have only to go down—but, as far as I am con- after three hours of dangerous navigation, brought cerned, that is not the question. I want to know the schooner safely to an anchor in the hay of Faxa how we are to get up again." before Reykjawik. "That is the least part of the business, and does My uncle came out of his cabin pale, haggard, not in any way trouble me. In the meantime, there thin, but full of enthusiasm, his eyes dilated with is not an hour to lose. I am about to visit the pleasure and satisfaction. Nearly the whole popula- public library. Very likely I may find there some tion of the town was on foot to see us land. The manuscripts from the hand of Saknussem. I shall fact was, that scarcely any one of them but ex- be glad to consult them." pected some goods by the periodical vessel. "In the meanwhile," I replied, "I will take a walk Professor Hardwigg was in haste to leave his through the town. Will you not likewise do so?" in prison, or rather as he called it, his hospital ; but "I feel no interest the subject," said my uncle. before he attempted to do so, he caught hold of my "What for me is curious in this island, is not what hand, led me to the quarter-deck of the schooner, is above the surface, but what is below." took my arm with his left hand, and pointed inland I bowed by way of reply, put on my hat and with his right, over the northern part of the bay, furred cloak, and went out. to where rose a high two-peaked mountain—a It was not an easy matter to lose onself in the double cone covered with eternal snow. "Behold," two streets of Reykjawik; I had therefore no need he whispered in an awe-stricken voice, "behold to ask my way. The town lies on a flat and marshy Mount Sneffels!" plain, between two hills. A vast field of lava skirts Without further remark, he put his finger to it on one side, falling away in terraces towards the his lips, frowned darkly, and descended into the sea. On the other hand is the large bay of Faxa, small boat which awaited us. I followed, and in bordered on the north by the enormous glacier of a few minutes we stood upon the soil of mysterious Sneffels. In the bay the Valkyrie was then the only Iceland vessel at anchor. Generally there were one or two Scarcely were we fairly on shore when there ap- English or French gunboats, to watch and protect peared before us a man of excellent appearance, the fisheries in the offing. However, they were now wearing the costume of a military officer. He was, absent on duty. however, but a civil servant, a magistrate, the gov- In three hours my tour was complete. The gen- ernor of the island—Baron Trampe. The Professor eral impression upon my mind was sadness. No knew whom he had to deal with. He therefore trees, no vegetation, so to speak—on all sides vol- handed him the letters from Copenhagen, and a canic peaks—the huts of turf and earth—more like brief conversation in Danish followed, to which I, of roofs than houses. Thanks to the heat of these course, was a stranger, and for a very good reason, residences, grass grows on the roof, which grass is for I did not know the language in which they con- carefully cut for hay. I saw but few inhabitants versed. I afterwards heard, however, that Baron during my excursion, but I met a crowd on the " 110 AMAZING STORIES

beach, drying, salting and loading cod-fish, the "Arne Saknussem!" cried the Professor of Reyk- principal article of exportation. The men appeared jawik; "you speak of one of the most distinguished robust but heavy, fair-haired like Germans, but of scholars of the sixteenth century, of the great pensive mien—exiles of a higher scale in the ladder naturalist, the great alchemist, the great traveler." of humanity than the Esquimaux, but, I thought, "Exactly so." much more unhappy, since with superior perceptions "One of the most distinguished men connected they are compelled to live within the limits of the with Icelandic science and literature." " Polar Circle. "As you say, sir "A man illustrious above all." CHAPTER VII "Yes, sir, all this is true, but his works?" "We have none of them." CONVERSATION AND DISCOVERY "Not in Iceland?" "There WHEN I returned, dinner was ready. This are none in Iceland or elsewhere," an- meal was devoured by my worthy relative swered the other, sadly. with avidity and voracity. His shipboard "Why so?" diet had turned his interior into a perfect gulf. The "Because Arne Saknussem was persecuted for repast, which was more Danish than Icelandic, was heresy, and in 1573 his works were publicly burnt in itself nothing, but the excessive hospitality of at Copenhagen by the hands of the common hang- our host made us enjoy it doubly. The conversation man." !" turned upon scientific matters, and M. Fridriksson "Very good ! capital murmured my uncle, to the asked my uncle what he thought of the public great astonishment of the worthy Icelander. library. "You said, sir— "Library, sir?" cried my uncle; "it appears to "Yes, yes, all is clear, I see the link in the chain; me a collection of useless odd volumes, and a beg- everything is explained," and I now understand why garly amount of empty shelves." Arne Saknussem, put out of court, forced to hide his discoveries, "What!" cried M. Fridriksson ; "why, we have magnificent was compelled to con- eight thousand volumes of most rare and valuable ceal beneath the veil of an incomprehensible crypto- " works—some in the Scandinavian language, besides graph, the secret all the new publications from Copenhagen." "What secret?" "Eight thousand volumes, my dear sir—why, "A secret—which," stammered my uncle. where are they?" cried my uncle. "Have you discovered some wonderful manu- "Scattered over the country, Professor Hard- script?" wigg. We are very studious, my dear sir, though "No, no, I was carried away by my enthusiasm. we do live in Iceland. Every farmer, every laborer, A mere supposition." every fisherman can both read and write—and we "Very good, sir. But, really, to turn to another think that books instead of being locked up in subject, I hope you will not leave our island with- cupboards, far from the sight of students, should out examination into its mineralogical riches." be distributed as widely as possible. The books of "Well, the fact is, I am rather late. So many our library are, therefore, passed from hand to hand learned men have been here before me." without returning to the library shelves perhaps "Yes, yes, but there is still much to be done," for years." cried M. Fridriksson. "Then when foreigners visit you, there is noth- "You think so," said my uncle, his eyes twinkling ing for them to see?" with hidden satisfaction. "Well, sir, foreigners have their own libraries, "Yes, you have no idea how many unknown moun- and our first consideration is, that our humbler tains, glaciers and volcanoes there are which remain classes should be highly educated. Fortunately, the to be studied. Without moving from where we sit, I love of study is innate in the Icelandic people. In can show you one. Yonder on the edge-of the hori- 1816 we founded a Literary Society and Mechanics' zon, you see Sneffels." Institute; many foreign scholars of eminence are "Oh yes, Sneffels," said my uncle. honorary members; we publish books destined to "One of the most curious volcanoes in existence, educate our people, and these books have rendered the crater of which has been rarely visited." valuable services to our country. Allow me to have "Extinct?" the honor, Professor Hardwigg, to enroll you as an "Extinct for the last five hundred years," was honorary member?" the ready reply. My uncle, who already belonged to nearly every "Well," said my uncle, who dug his nails into literary and scientific institution in Europe, imme- his flesh, and pressed his knees tightly together to diately yielded to the amiable wishes of good M. prevent himself leaping up with joy. "I have a Fridriksson. "And now," said the latter after many great mind to begin my studies with an examination expressions of gratitude and good-will, "if you will of the geological mysteries of this Mount Sneffel— tell me what books you expected to find, perhaps Feisel—what do you call it?" I may be of some assistance to you." "Sneffels, my dear sir." I watched my uncle keenly. For a minute or This portion of the conversation took place in two he hesitated, as if unwilling to speak; to speak Latin, and I therefore understood all that had been openly was, perhaps, to unveil his projects. Never- said. I could scarcely keep ray countenance when theless, after some reflection, he made up his mind. I found my uncle so cunningly concealing his' de- "Well, M. Fridriksson," he said in an easy, un- light and satisfaction. I must confess that his art- concerned kind of way, "I was desirous of ascer- ful grimaces, put on to conceal his happiness, made taining, if among other valuable works, you had him look like a new Mephistopheles. "Yes, yes," he any by the learned Arne Saknussem," continued, "your proposition delights me. I will A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH Ill

endeavor to climb to the summit of Sneffels, and, Bveiwthing in this man's manner revealed a calm ii possible, will descend into its crater." and phlegmatic temperament. There was nothing "I very much regret," continued M. Fridriksson indolent about him, but his appearance spoke of "that my occupation will entirely preclude the pos- tranquility. He was one of those who never seemed sibility of my accompanying you. It would have to expect anything from anybody, who liked to been both pleasurable and profitable if I could have work when he thought proper, and whose philosophy spared the time." nothing could astonish or trouble. "No, no, a thousand times no," cried my uncle, I began to. comprehend his character, simply from "I do not wish to disturb the serenity of any man. the way in which he listened to the wild and im-. I thank you, however, with all my heart. The pres- passioned verbiage of my worthy uncle. .While the ence of one so learned as yourself, would no doubt excellent Professor spoke sentence after sentence, have been most useful, but the duties of your office he stood with folded arms, utterly still, motionless and profession before everything. to all my uncle's gesticulations. When he wanted In the innocence of his simple heart, our host to say no he moved his head from left to right; did not perceive the irony of these remarks. "I en- when he acquiesced, he nodded so slightly that you tirely approve your project," he continued after could scarcely see the undulation of his head. This some further remarks. "It is a good idea to begin economy of motion was carried to the length of by examining this volcano. You will make a harvest avarice. of curious observations. In the first place, how do Judging from his appearance it would have been you propose to get to Sneffels?" a long time before I would suspect him to be what "By sea. I shall cross the bay. Of course that he was! a mighty hunter. Certainly his manner is the most rapid route. was not likely to frighten the game. How, then, "Of course. But still it cannot be done." did he contrive to get at his prey? My surprise "Why?" was slightly modified when I knew that this tranquil "We have not an available boat in all Reykjawik," and solemn personage, was only a hunter of the replied the other. eider-duck, the down of which is, after all, the- "What is to be done?" greatest source of the Icelanders' wealth. "You must go by land along the coast. It is This grave, sententious, silent person, as phleg- longer, but much more interesting." matic as an Englishman on the French stage, was "Then I must have a guide." named Hans Bjelke. He had called upon us in "Of course; and I have your very man." consequence of the recommendation of M. Fridriks- "Somebody on whom I can depend?" son. He was, in fact, our future guide. It struck "Yes, an inhabitant of the peninsula on which me that had I sought the world over, I could not Sneffels is situated. He is a very shrewd and worthy have found a greater contradiction to my impulsive man, with whom you Will be pleased. He speaks uncle. However, they readily understood one an- Danish like a Dane." other. Neither of them had any thought about "When can I see him—to-day?" money; one was ready to take all that was offered "No, to-morrow; he will not be here before." him, the other ready to offer anything that wa3 "To-morrow be it," replied my uncle with a deep asked. It may readily be conceived, then, that an sigh. understanding between them was soon reached. The conversation ended by compliments on both The understanding was, that he was to take us sides. During the dinner my uncle had learned to the village of Stapi, situated on the southern much as to the history of Arne Saknussem, the rea- slope of the peninsula of Sneffels, at the very foot sons for his mysterious and h iero glyph ical docu- of the volcano. Hans, the guide, told us the dis- ment. He also became aware that his host would tance was about twenty-two miles, a journey which not accompany him on his adventurous expedition, my uncle supposed would take about two days. But and that next day we should have a guide. when my uncle realized that they were Danish miles, of eight thousand yards each, he was obliged to be CHAPTER VIII more moderate in his ideas, and, considering the horrible roads we had to follow, to allow eight or THE EEDER-DOWN HUNTER—OFF AT LAST ten days for the journey. Four horses were pre- for us, to the baggage, and two evening I took a brief walk on the shore pared two carry myself and THATnear Reykjawik, after which I returned to an to bear the important weight of ever early sleep on my bed of coarse planks, where uncle. Hans declared that nothing would of any animal. I slept the sleep of the just. When I awoke I heard make him climb on the back He the coast, and my uncle speaking loudly in the next room. I rose knew every inch of that part of hastily and joined him. He was talking in Danish promised to take us the very shortest way. with a man of tall stature, and of perfectly Hercu- His engagement with my uncle was by no means lean build. This man appeared to be possessed of to cease with our arrival at Stapi ; he was further to very great strength. His eyes, which started rather remain in his service during the whole time re- prominently from a very large head, the face be- quired for the completion of his scientific investiga- week, longing to which was simple and naive, appeared tions, at the fixed salary of three rix-dollars a very quick and intelligent. Very long hair, which being exactly fourteen shillings and two-pence, even in England would have been accounted ex- minus one farthing, English currency. One stipula- the ceedingly red, fell over his athletic shoulders. This tion, however, was made by the guide— money native of Iceland was active and supple in appear- was to be paid to him every Saturday night, failing ance, though he scarcely moved his arms, being in which, his engagement was at an end. uncle fact one of those men who despise the habit of The day of our departure was fixed. My gesticulation common to southern people. wished to hand the eider-down hunter an advance, — —

-112 AMAZING STORIES

but he refused in one emphatic word "Efter,"— six months. The only liquid provided by my uncle which being translated from Icelandic into plain was scheidam. Of water, not a drop. We had, how- English means After. — ever, an ample supply of gourda, and my uncle The treaty concluded, our worthy guide retired counted on finding water, and enough to fill them, without another word. "A splendid fellow," said as soon as we commenced our downward journey.

. my uncle; "only he little suspects the marvelous My remarks as to the temperature and quality part he 13 about to play in the history of the of such water, and even as to the possibility of none world." being found, remained wholly without effect. "You mean, then," I cried in amazement, "that he To make up the exact list of our traveling gear— shall accompany ua?" for the guidance of future travelers—I will add, "To the Interior of the Earth, yes ;" replied my that we carried a medicine and surgical chest with uncle. "Why not?" all apparatus necessary for wounds, fractures and There were forty-eight hours more to elapse before blows lint, : scissors, lancets—a perfect collection of we made our final start. Our whole time was taken horrible-looking instruments; a number of phials up in making preparations for our journey. All containing ammonia, alcohol, ether, Goulard water, our industry and ability were, devoted to packing aromatic vinegar, in fact, every possible and im- every object in the most advantageous manner—the possible drug—finally, all the materials for work- instruments on one aide, the arms on the other, the ing the Ruhmkorf coil! toola here and the provisions there. There were, My uncle had also been careful to lay in in fact, four diatinct groups. a goodly supply of tobacco, several flasks of very fine gun- The instruments were, of course, of the best powder, manufacture :— boxes of tinder, besides a large belt crammed full of notes and gold. Good boots ren- 1. A centigrade thermometer of Eizel, counting dered water-tight were to be found to the number up to 150 degrees, which to me did not appear half of six in the tool-box. "My boy, with such clothing, enough—or too much. Too hot by half, if the de- with such boots, and such general equipments," gree of heat was to aacend so high—in which case said my uncle, in a state of rapturous delight; "we we should certainly be cooked—not enough, if we may hope to travel far." wanted to ascertain the exact temperature of It took a whole day to put all these springs or of minerals in a state of fusion. matters in order. In the evening we dined with Earon Trampe, 2. A manometer worked by the pressure of the in company with the Mayor of Reykjawik, atmosphere, an instrument used to ascertain the and Doctor Hyaltalin, the great medical atmospheric pressure. Perhaps a common barometer man of Iceland. M. Fridriksson was not present. Unfortunately, would not have done as well, the atmospheric pres- therefore, I did not understand a word sure being likely to increase in proportion as we that was said at dinner kind descended below the surface of the earth. —a of semi-official reception. One thing I can say, uncle never left off speaking. 3. A first-claaa chronometer made by Boissonnas, my of Geneva, set at the meridian of Hamburg, from The next day our labor came to an end. Our which Germans calculated as the English do from worthy host delighted my uncle, Professor Hard- Greenwich. wigg, by giving him a good map of Iceland, a most important 4. Two compasses, one for horizontal guidance, and precious document for a mineralogist. the other to ascertain the dip. Our last evening was spent in a long conversation 5. A night glass. with M. Fridriksson, whom I liked very much the 6. Two Euhmkorf's coils, which, by means of a more that I never expected to see him or any current of electricity, would ensure us a very ex- one else again. After this agreeable way of spend- ing an hour or so, I tried cellent, easily carried, and certain means of obtain- to sleep. In vain ; with ing light. the exception of a few dozes, my night was miser- 7. A voltaic battery on the newest principle. able. Our arms consisted of two rifles, with two re- At five o'clock in the morning I was awakened volvers. Why these arms were provided it was from the only real half-hour's sleep of the night, by impossible for me to say. I had every reaaon to the loud neighing of horses under my window. I believe that we had neither wild beasts nor savage hastily dreaaed myself and went down into the natives to fear. My uncle, on the other hand, was street. Hans was engaged in putting the finishing quite as devoted to his arsenal as to his collection of stroke to our baggage, which he did in a silent, instruments, and above all was very careful with quiet way that won my admiration, and yet he did his provision of fulminating or gun cotton, war- it admirably well. My uncle wasted a great deal of ranted to keep in any climate, and of which the breath in giving him directions, but worthy Hans expansive force was known to be greater than that took not the slightest notice of his words. of ordinary gun-powder. At six o'clock all our preparations were completed, Our tools consisted of two pickaxes, two crow- and M. Fridriksson shook hands heartily with us. bars, a silken rope ladder, three iron-shod Alpine My uncle thanked him warmly, in the Icelandic lan- stocks, a hatchet, a hammer, a dozen wedges, some guage, for his kind hospitality, speaking truly from pointed piecea of iron, and a quantity of strong rope. the heart. As for myself, I put together a few of You may conceive that the whole made a tolerable my best Latin phrases and paid him the highest parcel, especially when I mention that the ladder compliments I could. This fraternal and friendly itself was three hundred feet long! duty performed, we sallied forth and mounted our Then there came the important question of pro- horses. viaiona. The hamper was not very large but more As soon as we were quite ready, M. Fridriksson or leaa aatiafactory, for I knew that in concentrated advanced, and by way of farewell, called after me essence of meat and biscuit there was enough to last in the words of Virgil—words which appeared to 'A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 113 have been made for us, travelers starting for an own way, and I will undertake to say that between uncertain destination. us we shall do our ten leagues a day." "Bt quae tin que viani dcrlcril for'vna sequamur." "We may do so," was my reply, "but what about ("And whichsoever way fortune provides may our worthy guide?" we follow it.") "I have not the slightest anxiety about him; that sort of person goes ahead without even knowing CHAPTER IX what he is about. Just look at Hans. He moves so little that it is impossible for him to become OUR STAKT—WE MEET WITH ADVENTURES BY THE WAY fatigued. Besides, if he were to complain of weari- weather was overcast but settled, when we ness, he could have the loan of my horse. I should THEcommenced our adventurous and perilous have a violent attack of the cramp if I were not journey. We had neither to fear fatiguing heat to have some sort of exercise. My arms are all nor drenching rain. It was, in fact, real tourist right—but my legs are getting a little stiff." weather. As there is nothing I like better than horse All this while we were advancing at a rapid pace. exercise, the pleasure of riding through an unknown The country we had reached was already nearly a eountry, caused the early part of our enterprise to be desert. Here and there eould be seen an isolated particularly agreeable to me. I began to enjoy the farm, some solitary boer, or Icelandic house, built exhilarating delight of traveling, a life of desire, of wood, earth, fragments of lava—Idoking like gratification and liberty. The truth is, that my beggars on the highway of life. These wretched spirits rose so rapidly that I began to be indifferent and miserable huts excited in us such pity that we to what had once appeared to be a terrible journey. felt half disposed to leave alms at every door. In "After all," I said to myself, "what do I risk? this country there are no roads, paths are nearly Simply to take a journey through a curious country, unknown, and vegetation, poor as it was, slowly as to climb a remarkable mountain, and if the worst it reached its full growth, soon obliterated all traces comes to the worst, to descend into the crater of an of the few travelers who passed from place to extinct volcano." There could be no doubt that this place, was all this terrible Saknussem had done. As to A few stray cows and sheep were only seen oc- the existence of a gallery or of subterraneous pas- casionally. What, then, must we expect whem we sages leading into the interior of the earth, the idea come to the upheaved regions—to the districts was simply absurd, the hallucination of a dis- broken and roughened from volcanic eruptions and tempered imagination. All, then, that may be re- subterraneous commotions? quired of me I will do cheerfully, and will create no We were to learn all this in good time. I saw, difficulty. however, on consulting the map, that we avoided It was just before we left Reykjawik that I came a good deal of this rough country, by following the to this decision. Hans, our extraordinary guide, winding and desolate shores of the sea. In reality, went first, walking with a steady, rapid and un- the great volcanic movement of the island, and all varying step. Our two horses with the luggage fol- its atttendant phenomena, are concentrated in the lowed of their own aecord, without requiring whip interior of the island; there, horizontal layers or or spur. My uncle and I came behind, cutting very strata of rocks, piled one upon the other, eruptions tolerable figures upon our small but vigorous of basaltic origin, and streams of lava, have given animals. Hans, on taking his departure from Reyk- this'country a kind of supernatural reputation. jawik, had followed the line of the sea. We took Little did I expect, however, the spectacle which our way through poor and sparse meadows, which awaited us when we reached the peninsula of made a desperate effort every year to show a little Sneffels, where agglomerations of nature's ruins green. They very rarely succeeded in a good show form a kind of terrible chaos. of yellow. Every now and then a spur of rock came Some two hours or more after we had left the down through the arid ground, leaving us scarcely city of Reykjawik, we reached the little town called room to pass. Our horses, however, appeared not Aoalkirkja, or the principal church. It consists only well acquainted with the country, but by a simply of a few houses—not what in England or kind of instinct, knew which was the best road. My Germany we should call a hamlet. Hans stopped uncle had not even the satisfaction of urging his here one-half hour. He shared our frugal break- steed forward by whip, spur, or voice. It was fast, answered yes and no to my uncle's questions utterly useless to show any signs of impatience. I as to the nature of the road, and at last when eould not help smiling to see him look so big on asked where we were to pass the night was as his little horse; his long legs now and then touch- laconic as usual. "Gardar!" was his one-worded ing the ground made him look like a six-footed reply. centaur. I took occasion to consult the map, to see where "Good beast, good beast," he would cry. "I assure Gardar was to be found. After looking keenly I you, Harry, that I begin to think no animal is more found a small town of that name on the borders intelligent than an Icelandic horse. Snow, tempest, of the Hvalfjord, about four miles from Reykjawik. impracticable roads, rocks, icebergs—nothing stops I pointed this out to my uncle, who made a very him. He is brave; he is sober; he is safe; he never energetic grimace. makes a false step, never glides or slips from his "Only four miles out of twenty-two? Why it is path. I dare to say that if any river, any ford has only a little walk." to be crossed—and I have no doubt there will be He was about to make some energetic observa- many—you will see him enter the water without tion to the guide, but Hans, without taking the hesitation like an amphibious animal, and reach the slightest notice of him, went in front of the horses, opposite side in safety. We must not, however, at- and walked ahead with the same imperturbable

tempt to hurry him ; we must allow him to have his phlearm he had always exhibited. ;

114 AMAZING STORIES Still traveling over those apparently interminable moment when the seas at its highest point, is in a and sandy prairies, we were compelled to go round state of slack water. As neither the ebb nor flow the Kollafjord, then following a. narrow strip of can then be felt, the ferry boat was in no danger shore between high rocks and the sea, we came to of being carried out to sea, or dashed upon tha the "aoalkirkja" of Brantar, and after another rocky eoast. mile to "Saurboer Annexia," a chapel of ease, situ- The favorable moment did not come until six ated on the southern bank of the Hvalfjord. It was o'clock in the evening. Then my uncle, myself, and four o'clock in the evening and we had traveled four guide, two boatmen and the four horses got into Danish miles, about equal to twenty English. a very awkward fiat-bottom boat. Accustomed as The fjord in this was place about half-a-mile in I had been to the steam ferry-boats of the Elbe, I width. The sweeping and broken waves came roll- found the long oars of the boatmen but sorry means ing in upon the pointed rocks ; the gulf was sur- of locomotion. We were more than an hour in rounded by rocky walls—a mighty cliff, three thou- crossing the fjord; but at length the passage was sand feet in height, remarkable for its brown strata, concluded without accident. Half-an-hour later we separated here and there by beds of tufa of a reached Gardar. reddish hue. Now, whatever may have been the intelligence of our horses, I had not the slightest CHAPTER X reliance upon them, as a means of crossing a stormy arm of the sea. To ride over salt water upon the TRAVELING IN ICELAND back of a little horse seemed to me absurd. T ought, one would have thought, to have been "If they are really intelligent," I said to myself, night, even in the sixty-fifth parallel of latitude; "they will certainly not make the attempt. In any rbut still the nocturnal illumination did not sur- case, I shall trust rather to my own intelligence prise me. For in Iceland, during the months of June than theirs.". and July, the sun never sets. The temperature, But uncle my was in no humor to wait. He dug however, was very much lower than I expected. I Sis heels into the sides of his steed, and made for was cold, but even that did not affect me so much the shore. His horse went to the very edge of the as ravenous hunger. Welcome indeed, therefore, water, sniffed at the approaching wave and re- was the hut which hospitably opened its doors to us. treated. It was merely the house of a peasant, but in the uncle, My who, sooth to say, was quite an obsinate matter of hospitality, it was worthy of being the as the beast he bestrode, insisted on his making the palace of a king. As we alighted at the door the desired advance. This attempt was followed by a master of the house came forward, held out his new refusal on the part of the horse, who quietly hand, and without any further ceremony, signaled shook his head. Thi3 demonstration of rebellion was to us to follow him. We followed him, for to ac- followed by a volley of words and a stout applica- company him was impossible. A long, narrow, tion of whipcord; also followed by kicks on the gloomy passage led into the interior of this habita- part of the horse, which threw its head and heels tion, made from beams roughly squared by the ax. upwards and tried to throw his rider. At length This passage gave ingress to every room. The the sturdy little pony, spreading out his legs in chambers were four in number—the kitchen, the stiff ludicrous a and attitude, got from under the work-shop, where the weaving was carried on, the professor's legs, and left him standing, with both general sleeping-chamber of the family, and the feet on a separate stone, like tha Coliossus of best room, to which strangers were especially in- Rhodes. vited. My uncle, whose lofty stature had not been !" "Wretched animal cried my uncle, suddenly taken into consideration when the house was built, transformed into a foot passenger—and as angry contrived to knock his head against the beams of the and ashamed as a dismounted cavalry officer on the roof. field of battle. As soon as we had freed ourselves from our "Farja," said the guide, tapping him familiarly heavy traveling costume, the voice of our host was on the shoulder. heard calling to us to come into the kitchen, the "What, a ferry boat!" only room in which the Icelanders ever make any "Der," answered Hans, pointing to where lay the — fire, no matter how cold it may be. My unele, noth- boat in question "there." ing loath, hastened to obey this hospitable and "Well," I cried, much relieved by the informa- friendly invitation. I followed. tion; "so it is." On our entrance, our worthy host, as if he had "Why did you not say so before," cried my uncle not seen us before, advanced ceremoniously, uttered "why not start at once?" a word which means "be happy," and then kissed "Tidwtten," said the guide. both of us on the cheek. His wife followed, pro- "What does he say?" I asked, considerably nounced the same word, with the same ceremonial, puzzled by the delay and the dialogue. then the husband end wife, placing theii right hands "He says tide." replied my uncle, translating upon their hearts, bowed profoundly. the Danish word for my information. This excellent Icelandic woman was the mother of "Of course, I understand—we must wait till the nineteen children, who, little and big, rolled, tide serves." crawled, and walked about in the midst of volumes "For bida?" asked my unele. of smoke arising from the angular fire-place in the "3a, replied Hans. middle of the room. Every now and then I could My uncle frowned, stamped his feet and then see a fresh white head, with a slightly melancholy followed the horses to where the boat lay. I thor- expression of countenance, peering at me through oughly understood and appreciated the necessity the vapor. Both my uncle and myself, however, for waiting, before crossing the fjord, for that were very friendly with the whole party, and be- !

A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 115 fore we were aware of it, there were three or four settled with him immediately. It was now the of these little ones on our shoulders, as many on family of Hans himself, that is to say, his uncles, our boxes, and the rest hanging about our legs. his cousins-german, who offered us hospitality. We Those who could speak kept crying out saellvertu in were exceedingly well received, and without taking every possible and impossible key. Those who did too much advantage of the goodness of these worthy not speak only made all the more noise. people, I should have liked very much to have rested This concert was interrupted by the announce- with them after the fatigues of the journey. But ment of supper. Just then our worthy guide, the my uncle, who did not require rest, had no idea of eider-duck hunter, came in after seeing' to the feed- anything of the kind; and despite the fact that ing and stabling of the horses—which consisted in next day was Sunday, I was compelled once more letting them loose to browse on the stunted green to mount my steed. of the Icelandic prairies. There was little for them The soil was again affected by the neighborhood to eat, but moss and some very dry and innutritions of the mountains, whose granite peered out of the grass; next day they were ready before the door, ground like tops of an old oak. We were skirting long before we were. the enormous base of the mighty volcano. My uncle

"Welcome," said Hans. Then tranquilly, with the never took his eyes from off it ; he could not keep air of an automaton, without any more expression from gesticulating, and looked at it with a kind in one kiss than another, he embraced the host and of sullen defiance as much as to say "That is the hostess and their nineteen children. giant I have made up my mind to conquer." This ceremony concluded to the satisfaction of all After four hours of steady traveling, the horses parties, we all sat down to table—that is twenty- stopped of themselves before the door of the presby- four of us-—somewhat crowded. Those who were tery of Stapi. We had reaehed the foot of the more fortunate had only two juveniles on their volcano. knees. However, as soon as the inevitable soup was placed on the table, natural taciturnity common CHAPTER XI even to Icelandic babies, prevailed over all else. Our host filled our plates with a portion of Lichen WE REACH MOUNT SNEFFF.LS—THE "rEYKIb" soup of Iceland moss, of by no means disagreeable flavor, an enormous lump of fish floating in sour STAPI is a town consisting of thirty huts, built butter. After that there came some "skyr," a kind on a large plain of lava, exposed to the rays of of curds of whey, served with biscuits and juniper- the sun, reflected from the volcano. It stretches berry juice. To drink, we had "blanda,"—skimmed its humble tenements along the end of a little fjord, milk with water. I was hungry, so hungry, that surrounded by a basaltic wall of the most singular by way of dessert I finished up with a basin of character. Here we found Nature proceeding geo- thick oat-meal porridge. metrically, and working quite after a human' As soon as the supper was over, the children dis- fashion, as if she had employed the plummet line, appeared, and the grown people sat around the fire- the compass and the rule. If elsewhere she pro- place, on which was placed turf, heather, cow dung duces grand artistic effects by piling up huge and dried fish-bones. As soon as everybody was masses without order or connection—if elsewhere sufficiently warm, a general dispersion took place, we see truncated cones, imperfect pyramids, with all retiring to their respective couches. Our hostess an odd succession of lines, here, as if wishing to offered to pull off our stockings and trousers, ac- give a lesson in regularity, and preceding the archi- cording to the custom of the country, but as we tects of the early ages, she has erected a severe graciously declined to be so honored, she left us to order of architecture, which neither the splendors our bed of dry fodder. of Babylon nor the marvels of Greece ever sur- At five in the morning next day we took our passed. The walls of the fjord, like nearly the whole leave. My uncle had great difficulty in making them of the peninsula, consisted of a series of vertical accept a sufficient and proper remuneration. That columns, in height about thirty feet. These upright evening, after fording the Alfa and the Heta, two pillars of stone, of the finest proportions, supported rivers rich in trout and pike, we were compelled an arehivault of horizontal columns which formed to pass the night in a deserted house, worthy of a kind of half-vaulted roof above the sea. At cer- being haunted by all the fays of Scandinavian tain intervals, and below this natural basin, the mythology. The King of Cold had taken up his eye was pleased and surprised by the sight of oval residence there, and made us feel his presence all openings through which the outward waves came night. thundering in volleys of foam. Some banks of The two following days were remarkable for their basalt, torn from their fastenings by the fury of lack of any particular incidents. Always the same the waves, lay scattered on the ground like the ruins damp and swampy soil; the same dreary uni- of an ancient temple—ruins eternally young, over formity; the same sad and monotonous aspect of which the storms of ages swept without producing scenery. I confess that fatigue began to tell severe- any perceptible effect! ly upon me; but my uncle was as firm and as hard This was the last stage of our journey. Hans as he had been when we started. I could not help had brought us along with fidelity and intelligence, admiring both the excellent Professor and the and I began to feel somewhat more comfortable worthy guide; for they appeared to regard this when I reflected that he was to accompany us still rugged expedition as a mere jaunt farther on our way. On Saturday, the 20th of June, at six o'cloek in When we halted before the house of the Rector, a the evening, we reaehed Budir, a small town pic- small and incommodious cabin, neither handsome comfortable than those of his neighbors, turesquely situated on the shore of the ocean ; and nor more here the guide asked for his money. My uncle I saw a man in the act of shoeing a horse, a hammer 116 AMAZING STORIES in his hand, and a leathern apron tied around his tainly be lost in the midst of the labyrinth of sub- waist. terranean galleries of the volcano. Now, we have "Be happy," said the eider-down hunter, using his no evidence to prove that Sneffels is really extinct. national salutation in his own language. What proof have we that an eruption is not shortly "Good-dag—good-day!" replied the former, in ex- about to take place? Because the monster has slept cellent Danish. soundly since A. D. 1229, does it follow that he is "Kyrkokerde," cried Hans, turning round and in- never to wake? If he does wake what is to become troducing him to my uncle. of U3?" "The Rector," repeated the worthy Professor; These were questions worth thinking about, and "it appears, my dear Harry, that this worthy man upon them I reflected long and deeply. I could not is the Rector, and is not above doing his own work." lie down in search of sleep without dreaming of During the speaking of these few words the guide eruptions. The more I thought, the more I objected intimated to the Kyrkokerde what was the true state to be reduced to the state of dross and ashes. I of the case. The good man, ceasing from his oc- could stand it no longer so I determined at last cupation, gave a kind of halloo, upon which a tall to submit the whole case to my uncle, in the most woman, almost a giantess, came out of the hut. She adroit manner possible, and under the form of some was at least six feet high, which in that region totally irreconcilable hypothesis. is very unusual. My first impression was one of I sought him. I laid before him my fears, and horror. I thought she had come to give us the then drew back in order to let him get over his Icelandic kiss. However, I had nothing to fear, passion at his ease. for she did not even show much inclination to re- "I have been thinking about the matter," he said, ceive us into her house. in the quietest tone in the world. The room devoted to strangers appeared to me What did he mean? Was he at last about to listen to he by far the worst in the presbytery; it was to the voice of reason? Did he think of suspending narrow, dirty and offensive. But there was no his projects? It was almost too much happiness to choice about the matter. The Rector had no notion be true. I made no remark. I was too anxious not of practicing the usual cordial and antique hos- to interrupt him, and so allow him to reflect at pitality. My uncle soon became aware of the kind his leisure. After some moments he spoke. of man he had to deal with. Instead of a worthy "I have been thinking about the matter," he re- and learned scholar, he found a dull, ill-mannered sumed. "Ever since we were at Stapi, my mind has peasant. He therefore resolved to start on his great been almost solely occupied with the grave question expedition as soon as possible and spend a few which you, yourself just submitted to me—for noth- days in the mountains, if necessary. ing would be unwiser and more inconsistent than to The preparations for our departure were made act with imprudence." the very next day after our arrival at Stapi ; Hans "I heartily agree with you, my dear uncle," was now hired three Icelanders to take the place of the my somewhat hopeful rejoinder. horses—which could no longer carry our luggage. "It is now six hundred years since Sneffels has However, when these worthy Icelanders had reached spoken, but though now reduced to a state of utter the bottom of the crater, they were to go back and silence, he may speak again. New volcanic eruptions leave us to ourselves. This point was settled before are always preceded by perfectly well-known phe- they would agree to start. On this occasion, my nomena. I have closely examined the inhabitants of uncle partially confided in Hans, the eider-duck this region; I have carefully studied the soil, and hunter, and gave him to understand that it was his I beg to tell you emphatically, my dear Harry, there intention to continue his exploration of the volcano will be no eruption at present." to the last possible limits. As I listened to his positive affirmations, I was Hans listened calmly, and then nodded his head. stupefied and could say nothing. To go there, or elsewhere, to bury himself in the "I see you doubt my word," said my uncle; "fol- bowels of the earth, or to travel over its summit, low me." was all the same to him! As for me, amused and I obeyed mechanically. Leaving the presbytery, occupied by the incidents of travel, I had begun to the. Professor took a road through an opening in forget the inevitable future; but now I was once the basaltic rock, which led far away from the sea. more brought to realize the actual state of affairs. We were soon in open country, if we could give What was to be done? Run away? But if I really such a name to a place all covered with volcanic de- had intended to leave Professor Hardwigg to his posits. The whole land seemed crushed under the fate, it should have been at Hamburg and not at weight of enormous stones—of trap, of basalt, of the foot of Sneffels. granite, of lava, and of all other volcanic substances. One idea above all others began to trouble me: I could see many spouts of steam rising in the a very terrible idea, and one calculated to shake air. These white vapors, called in the Icelandic {he nerves of a man far less sensitive than myself. language "reykir," come from hot water fountains, "Let us consider the matter," I said to myself; "we and indicate by their violence the volcanic activity are going to ascend the Sneffels mountain. Well and of the soil. The sight of these appeared to justify good. We are about to pay a visit to the very my apprehension and I was, therefore, all the more bottom of the crater. Still good. Others have done surprised and mortified when my uncle thus ad- it and did not perish from that course. dressed me. "You see all this smoke, Harry, my "But that is not the whole matter to be con- boy?" sidered. If a road does really present itself by "Yes, sir." which to descend into the dark and subterraneous "Well, as long as you can see them thus, you have bowels of Mother Earth, if this thrice unhappy Sak- nothing to fear from the volcano." nussem really did tell the truth, we shall most cer- "How can that be?" — ! A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH U7 "Be careful to remember this," continued the outline of the peak against the gray field of sky. Professor. "At the approach of an eruption these All we could distinguish was a vast dome of white, spouts of vapor redouble their activity—to disap- which fell downwards from the head of the giant. pear altogether during the period of volcanic erup- The commencement of the great undertaking filled tion; for the elastic fluids, no longer having the me with awe. Now that we had actually started, I necessary tension, seek refuge in the interior of began to believe in the reality of the undertaking! the crater, instead of escaping through the fissures Our party formed quite a procession. We walked of the earth. If, then, the steam remains in its in single file, preceded by Hans, who calmly led us normal or habitual state, if their energy does not by narrow paths where two persons could by no increase, and if you add to this, the remark, that the possibility walk abreast. Conversation was wholly wind is not replaced by heavy atmospheric pressure impossible. We had aU the more opportunity there- and dead calm, you may be quite sure that there is fore to reflect, and to admire the awful grandeur of no fear of any immediate eruption." the scene around. " "But As we advanced, the road became more difficult. "Enough, my boy. When science has sent forth The soil was broken and dangerous. The roeks her fiat—it is only to hear and to obey." broke and gave' way under our feet, and we had I came back to the house quite downcast and dis- to be scrupulously careful in order to avoid dan- appointed. My uncle had completely defeated me gerous and constant falls. Hans advanced as calmly with his scientific arguments. Nevertheless, I still as if he had been walking over Salisbury Plain; had one hope,—that was, when once we were at the sometimes he would disappear behind huge blocks bottom of the crater, that it would be impossible in of stone, and we momentarily lost sight of him. default of a gallery or tunnel, to descend any There was a little period of anxiety and then there was a shrill whistle, just to tell us where to look deeper ; and this, despite all the learned Saknussems for 1 the i -rid. him. I the whole of the following night with a Occasionally he would take it into his head to nightmare on my chest! —and, after unheard-of stop to pick up lumps of rock, and silently pile them miseries and tortures, found myself in the very up into small heaps, in order that we might not lose depths of the earth, from which I was suddenly our way on our return.. He had no idea of the jour- launched into planetary space, under the form of an ney we were about to undertake. At all events, eruptive rock! the precaution was a good one; though how utterly Next day, the 23d June, Hans calmly awaited useless and unnecessary— But I must not an- us outside the presbytery with his two companions ticipate. loaded with provisions, tools and instruments. Two Three hours of terrible fatigue, walking in- iron-shod staves, two guns, and two large game cessantly, had only brought us to the foot of the bags, were reserved for my uncle and myself. Hans, great mountain. This will give some notion of what a man who never failed to take even the minutest we had still to undergo. precautions, had added to our baggage a large skin Suddenly, Hans cried a halt—that is, he made full of water, as an addition to our gourds. This signs to that effect—and a summary kind of break- assured us water for eight days. fast was laid out on the lava before us. My uncle, It was nine o'clock in the morning when we were who now was simply Professor Hardwigg, was so ready. The rector and his huge wife, or servant eager to advance, that he bolted his food like a halt refreshment also I never knew which—stood at the door to see us greedy clown. This for was therefore off. They appeared to be about to inflict on us the a halt for repose. The Professor was com- usual final kiss of the Icelanders. To our supreme pelled to wait the good pleasure of his imperturbable astonishment their adieu took the shape of a formid- guide, who did not give the signal for departure for able bill, in which they even counted the use of the a good hour. The three Icelanders, as taciturn as pastoral house, really and truly the most abominable their comrade, did not say a word, but went on eat- and dirty place I ever was in. The worthy couple ing and drinking very quietly and soberly. cheated and robbed us like a Swiss innkeeper, and From this, our first real stage, we began to made us feel, by the sum we had to pay, the splen- ascend the slopes of the Sneffels volcano. Its mag- dors of their hospitality. My uncle paid without nificent snowy night-cap, as we began to call it, bargaining. A man who had made up his mind by an optical delusion very common in mountains, to undertake a voyage into the Interior of the Earth, appeared to me to be close at hand; and yet how hours must elapse before is not the man to haggle over a few miserable rix- many long weary we dollars. reached its summit. What undreamed-of fatigue This important matter settled, Hans. gave the must we endure signal for departure, and a few moments later we The stones on the mountain side, held together roots or had left Stapi. by no cement of soil, bound together by no creeping herbs, gave way continually under our CHAPTER XII feet, and went rushing below into the plains, like a series of small avalanches. In certain places the THE ASCENT OF MOUNT SNEFFELS sides of this stupendous mountain were at an angle upwards, volcano, which was the first stage of our so steep that it was impossible to climb to around these obstacles THEexperiment, is about five thousand feet high. and we were compelled get could. understand Alpine Sneffels is the termination of a long range as best we Those who Often of volcanic mountains, of a character different from climbing will appreciate our difficulties. we of the system of the island itself. One of its peculiari- were obliged to help each other along by means where climbing poles. ties is its two huge pointed summits. From our actual I must say this for uncle stuck as close we started it was impossible to make out the my —he 118 AMAZING STORIES to me aa possible. He never lost sight of me, and of a mighty water-spout. It resembled the fearful on many occasions his arm supplied me with firm phenomenon of a similar character known to the and solid support. He was strong, wiry, and ap- travelers in the desert of the great Sahara. parently insensible to fatigue. He had another The wind was driving it directly towards that great advantage—the innate sentiment of equilib- side of Sneffels on which we were perched. Thi3 rium—for he never slipped or failed in his steps. opaque veil standing up between us and the sun The Icelanders, though heavily loaded, climbed with projected a deep shadow on the flanks of the moun- the agility of mountaineers. tain. If this sand-spout broke over us, we must Looking up every now and then, at the height of all be completely destroyed, crushed jn its fearful the great volcano of Sneffels, it appeared to me embraces. This extraordinary phenomenon, very impossible to reach the summit on that side—at common when the wind shakes the glaciers, and least if the angle of inclination did not speedily sweeps over the arid plains, is in the Icelandic tongue called mistour. Fortunately, after an hour of difficult climbing, "Hastigt, Hastigt!" cried our guide. and gymnastic exercises that would have been try- Now I certainly knew nothing of Danish, but I ing to an acrobat, we came to a vast field of ice, thoroughly understood that his gestures were which completely surrounded the bottom of the cone meant to hurry us. The guide turned rapidly in a of the volcano. The natives called it the table-cloth, direction which would take us to the back of the probably for some such reason as the dwellers in crater, all the while ascending slightly. We followed the Cape of Good Hope call their mountain, Table rapidly, despite our excessive fatigue. Mountain, and their anchorage or roads, Table Bay. A quarter of an hour later Hans paused to en- Here, to our mutual surprise, we found an actual able us to look back. The mighty whirlwind of flight of stone steps, which considerably assisted our sand was spreading up the slope of the mountain ascent. This singular flight of stairs was, like to the very spot where we had proposed to halt. everything else, volcanic. It had been formed by one Huge stones were caught up, cast into the air, and of those torrents of stones cast up by the eruptions, thrown about as during an eruption. We were of which the Icelandic name is stina,. If this singular happily a little out of the direction of the wind, torrent had not been checked in its descent by the and therefore out of reach of danger. But for the peculiar shape of the flanks of the mountain, it precaution and knowledge of our guide, our dis- would have swept into the sea, and formed new located bodies, our crushed and broken limbs, would islands. Such as it was, it 3erved us admirably. have been cast to the wind, like dust from some The abrupt character of the slopes momentarily in- unknown meteor. creased, but these remarkable stone steps, a little Hans however did not think it prudent to pass the less difficult than those of the Egyptian pyramids, night on the bare side of the cone. We therefore were the one simple natural means by which we continued our journey in a zigzag direction. The ytere enabled to proceed. fifteen hundred feet which remained to be climbed About seven in the evening of that day, after took us at least five hours. The turnings and wind- having clambered up two thousand of these rough ings, the no-thoroughfares, the marches and steps, we found ourselves overlooking a kind of marches, turned that insignificant distance into at spur or projection of the mountain—like a buttress least three leagues. I never felt such misery, upon which the cone-like crater, properly so called, fatigue and exhaustion in my life. I was ready leaned for support. to faint from hunger and cold. At the same time The ocean lay beneath us at a depth of more than the rarefied air acted painfully upon my lungs. three thousand two hundred feet—a grand and At last, about eleven at night, when I thought mighty spectacle. We had reached the region of I was gasping ray last breath, we reached the sum- eternal snows. cold was keen, searching and The mit of Mount Sneffels ! it was in an awful state of intense. The wind blew with extraordinary violence. mind, that despite my fatigue, I paused to behold I was utterly exhausted. the sun rise at midnight on the very day of its My worthy uncle, the Professor, saw clearly that lowest declension, and enjoyed the spectacle of its my legs refused further service, and that, in fact, ghastly pale rays cast upon the isle which lay sleep- I was utterly exhausted. Despite his hot and ing at our feet, before I descended into the crater feverish impatience, he decided, with a sigh, upon which was to shelter us for the night. called to his side. a halt. He the eider-duck hunter I no longer wondered at people traveling all the That worthy, however, shook his head. way from England to Norway, to behold this magi- "Ofvanfor," was his sole spoken reply. cal and wonderful spectacle. "It appears," says my uncle with a woe-begone look, "that we must go higher." CHAPTER XIII He then turned to Hans, and asked him to give some reason for this decisive response. THE SHADOW OF SCARTARIS! "Histour," replied the guide. "Ja mistour—yes, the mistour," cried one of the5 supper was eaten with ease and rapidity, Icelandic guides in a terrified tone. OURafter which everybody did the best he could It was the first time he had spoken. for himself within the hollow of the crater. "What does this mysterious word signify?" I The bed was hard, the shelter unsatisfactory, the sit- anxiously inquired. uation painful—lying in the open air, 5,000 feet

"Look," said my uncle. above the level of the sea ! Nevertheless, very rarely I looked down upon the plain below, and I saw a did I sleep so well as I did that particular night* vast, prodigious volume of pulverized pumice-stone, I did not even dream. So much for the effects c| of sand, of dust, rising to the heavens in the form what my uncle called "wholesome fatigue." A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 119 Next day, when we awoke under the rays of a flame and thunder and lightning. The bottom of hright and glorious sun, we were nearly frozen by the funnel-shaped hollow was about five hundred the keen air. I left my granite couch and made one feet in circumference, by which it will be seen that of the party to enjoy a view of the magnificent the slope from the summit to the bottom was very spectacle which unrolled itself, panorama-like, at gradual, and we were therefore clearly able to get our feet. there without much fatigue or difficulty. Involun- I stood upon the lofty summit of Mount Sneffels' tarily, I compared this crater to an enormous loaded completely terrified me. southern peak. Thence I was able to obtain a view cannon ; and the comparison of a great part of the island. The optical delusion, "To descend into the interior of a cannon," I common to all lofty heights, raised the shores of thought to myself, "when perhaps it is loaded, and the island, while the central portions appeared de- will go off at the least shock, is the act of a mad- pressed. It was by no means too great a flight of man." fancy to believe that a giant picture was stretched But there was no longer any opportunity for me out before me. I could see the deep valleys that to hesitate. Hans, with a perfectly calm and in- crossed each other in every direction. I could see different air, took his usual post at the head of the precipices looking like sides of wells, lakes that adventurous little band. I followed without utter- seemed to be changed into ponds, ponds that looked ing a syllable. I felt like the lamb led to the like puddles, and rivers that were transformed into slaughter. petty brooks. To my right were glaciers upon In order to render the descent less difficult, Hans glaciers, and multiplied peaks, topped with light took his way down the interior of the cone in clouds of smoke. rather a zigzag fashion, making, as the sailors say, The undulation of the infinite numbers of moun- long tracks to the eastward, followed by equally tains, whose snowy summits make them look as long ones to the west. It was necessary to walk though covered by foam, recalled to my memory the through the midst of eruptive rocks, some of which, surface of a storm-beaten ocean. If I looked to- shaken in their balance, went rolling down with wards the west, the ocean lay before me in all its thundering clamor to the bottom of the abyss. These majestic grandeur, a continuation as it were, of continual falls awoke echoes of singular power and these fleecy hill-tops. It was impossible for the eye effect. to distinguish where the land ended and the sea Many portions of the cone consisted of inferior began. glaciers. Hans, whenever he met with one of these precaution, I soon felt that strange and mysterious sensation obstacles advanced with a great show of which is awakened in the mind when looking down sounding the snow with his long iron pole in order from lofty hill tops, and now I was able to do so to discover fissures and layers of deep soft snow. -without any feeling of nervousness, having for- In many doubtful or dangerous places, it became tunately hardened myself to that kind of sublime necessary for us to be tied together by a long rope contemplation. I wholly forgot who I was, and in order that should any one of us be unfortunate be by his com- where I was. I became intoxicated with a sense enough to slip, he would supported of lofty sublimity, without thought of the abysses panions. This connecting link was doubtless a pru- into which my daring was soon about to plunge me. dent precaution, but not by any means unattended But I was presently brought baek to the realities with danger. of life by the arrival of the Professor and Hans, Nevertheless, despite all the manifold difficulties who joined me upon the lofty summit of the peak. of the descent, along slopes with which our guide My uncle, turning in a westerly direction, pointed was wholly unacquainted, we made considerable great parcels out to me a light cloud of vapor, a kind of haze, progress without accident. One of our with a faint outline of land rising out of the waters. of rope slipped from one of the Iceland porters, and "Greenland!" said he. rushed by a short cut to the bottom of the abyss. "Greenland?" cried I in reply. By mid-day we were at the end of our journey. I "Yes," continued my uncle, who always when ex- looked upwards, and saw only the upper orifice of plaining anything, spoke as if he were in a Pro- the cone, which served as a circular frame to a very fessor's chair; "we are not more than thirty-five small portion of the sky—a portion which seemed leagues distant from that wonderful land. When to me singularly beautiful. Should I ever again gaze the great annual break up of the ice takes place, on that lovely sunlit sky! white bears come over to Iceland, carried by the The only exception to this extraordinary land- floating masses of ice from the north. This, how- scape, was the Peak of Scartaris, which seemed lost ever, is a matter of little consequence. We are now in the great void of the heavens. on the summit of the great, the transcendent Snef- The bottom of the crater was composed of three fels, and here are its two peaks, north and south. separate shafts, through which, during periods of Hans will tell you the name by which the people of eruption, when Sneffels was in action, the great Iceland call that on which we stand." central furnaces sent forth its burning lava and My uncle turned to the imperturbable guide, who poisonous vapors. Each of these chimneys or shafts nodded and spoke as usual—one word. "Scartaris." gaped open-mouthed in our path. I kept as far away My uncle looked at me with a proud and triumph- from them as possible, not even venturing to take ant glance. "A crater," he 3aid, "you hear?" the faintest peep downwards. I did hear, but I was totally unable to make As for the Professor, after a rapid examination reply. of their disposition and characteristics, he became The crater of Mount Sneffels represented an in- breathless and panting. He ran from one to the verted cone, the gaping orifice apparently half a other like a delighted school-boy, gesticulating wild- mile across; the depth, indefinite feet. Conceive ly, and uttering incomprehensible and disjoint?!"! Hans, the guide, what this hole must have been like when full of phrases in all sorts of languages. —

120 AMAZING STORIES and hia humbler companions seated themselves on followed by the adventurous Saknussem. According some piles of lava and looked silently on. They to the words of the learned Icelander, it was only clearly took my uncle for a lunatic and—waited the to be known by that one particular mentioned in result. the cryptograph, that the shadow of Seartaris fell Suddenly the Professor uttered a wild, unearthly upon it, just touching its mouth in the last days cry. At first I imagined he had lost his footing, and of the month of June. We were, in fact, to con- was falling headlong into one of the yawning gulfs. sider the point peak as the stylus of an immense Nothing of the kind. I saw him, his arms spread sun-dial, the shadow of which pointed on one given out to their widest extent, his legs stretched apart, day, like the inexorable finger of fate, to the yawn- standing upright before an enormous pedestal, high ing chasm which led into the interior of the earth. enough and black enough to bear a gigantic statue Now, as often happen in these regions, should the of Pluto. His attitude and mien were that of a man sun fail to burst through the clouds, there can be utterly stupefied. But his stupefaction was speedily no shadow. Consequently, no chance of discovering changed to the wildest joy. "Harry! Harry! come the right aperture. We had already reached the 25th here!" he cried; "make haste—'wonderful—won- of June. If the kindly heavens would only remain derful I" densely clouded for six more days, we should have Unable to understand what he meant, I turned to put off our voyage of discovery for another year, to obey his commands. Neither Hans, nor the other when there would certainly be one person fewer in Icelanders moved a step. the party. I had already had sufficient of the mad "Look!" said the Professor, in something of the and monstrous enterprise. manner of the French general, pointing out the It would be utterly impossible to depict the im- pyramids to his army. And fully partaking his potent rage of Professor Hardwigg. The day passed, stupefaction, if not his joy, I read on the eastern and not the faintest outline of a shadow could be side of the huge block of stone, the same characters, seen at the bottom of the crater. Hans, the guide, half eaten away by the corrosive action of time, never moved from his place. . He must have been the name, to me a thousand times accursed curious to know what we were about, if indeed he could believe we were about anything. As for my uncle, he never addressed a word to me. He was nJLM WkhVrfY nursing his wrath to keep it warm! His eyes were fixed on the black and foggy atmosphere, his com- "Arne Saknussem!" cried my uncle, "now, un- plexion hideous with suppressed passion. Never had believer, do you begin to have faith?" his eyes appeared so fierce, his nose so aquiline, his It was totally impossible for me to answer a mouth so hard and firm. single word. I went back to my pile of lava, in a On the 26th, no change for the better. A mix- state of silent awe. The evidence was unanswer- ture of rain and snow fell during the whole day. into able, overwhelming I Hans very quietly built himself a hut of lava In a few moments, however, my thoughts were which he retired like Diogenes into his tub. I took far away, back in my German home, with Gretchen a malicious delight in watching the thousand little and the old cook. What would I have given for one cascades that flowed down the side of the cone, of my cousin's smiles, for one of the ancient carrying with them at times a stream of stones into domestic's omelettes, and for my own feather bed! the "vasty deep" below. How long I remained in this state I know not. All My uncle was almost frantic: to be sure it was I can say is, that when at last I raised my head enough to make even a patient man angry. He had from between my hands, there remained at the bot- reached to a certain extent the goal of his desires, tom of the crater only myself, mv uncle and Hans. and yet he was likely to be wrecked in port. The Icelandic porters had been dismissed and were But if the heavens and the elements are capable now descending the exterior slopes of Mount Snef- of causing us much pain and sorrow, there are two fels, on their way to Stapi. How heartily did I sides to a medal. And there was reserved for Pro- wish myself with them! fessor Hardwigg a brilliant and sudden surprise Hans slept tranquilly at the foot of a rock in a which was to compensate him for all his sufferings. kind of rill of lava, where he had made himself a Next day the sky was still overcast, but on Sunday, rough and ready bed. My uncle was walking about the 29th, the last day but one of the month, with the bottom of the crater like a wild beast in a a sudden change of wind and a new moon there cage. I had no desire, neither had I the strength, came a change of weather. The sun poured its beam- to move from my recumbent position. Taking ex- ing rays to the very bottom of the crater. ample by the guide, I gave way to a kind of painful Each hillock, every rock, every stone, every somnolency, during which I seemed both to hear asperity of the soil had its share of the luminous and feel continual heavings and shudderings in the effulgence, and its shadow fell heavily on the soil. mountain. In this way we passed our first night in Among others, to his insane delight, the shadow of the interior of a crater. f'f.'iirtaris was marked and clear, and moved slowly Next morning, a gray, cloudy, heavy sky hung with the radiant star of day. like a funeral-pall over the summit of the volcanic My uncle moved with it in a state of mental cone, I did not notice it so much from the ob- ecstasy. At twelve o'clock exactly, when the sun scurity that reigned around us, as from the rage had attained its highest altitude for the day, the with which my uncle was devoured. shadow fell upon the edge of the central pit! I fully understood the reason, and again a glimpse "Here it is," gasped the Professor in an agony of hope made my heart leap with joy. I will briefly of joy, "here it is—we have found it. Forward, my explain the cause. Of the three openings which friends, into the Interior of the Earth." yawned beneath our steps, only one could have been I looked curiously at Hans to see what reply he A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 121 would make to this terrific announcement. "Forut," two cords in one hand. When aoout two hundred said the guide tranquilly. feet below, all the explorer had to do was to let "Forward it is," answered my uncle, who was go one end and pull away at the other, when the now in the seventh heaven of delight. cord would come falling at his feet. In order to When we were quite ready, our watches indicated go down farther, all that was necessary was to con- thirteen minutes past one! tinue the same operation. Going down thus ap- peared to me easy enough, it was the coming up CHAPTER XIV that now occupied my thoughts. "Now," said my uncle, as soon as he had com- REAL THE JOURNEY COMMENCES pleted this important preparation, "let us see about real journey commenced. Hitherto our the baggage. It must be divided into three separate OURcourage and determination had overcome all parcels, and each of us must carry one on his back.

difficulties. We were fatigued at times ; and I allude to the more important and fragile articles." that was all. Now, unknown and fearful dangers My worthy and ingenious uncle did not appear to were to be encountered. consider that we came under that denomination. I had not as yet ventured to take a glimpse down "Hans," he continued, "you will take charge of the which the horrible abyss into in a few minutes more tools and some of the provisions ; you, Harry, must I was about to plunge. The fatal moment had, how- take possession of another third of the provisions ever, at last arrived. I had still the option of re- and of the arms. I will load myself with the rest of fusing or accepting a share in this foolish and auda- the eatables, and with the more delicate instru- cious enterprise. But I was ashamed to show more ments." fear than the eider-duck hunter. Hans seemed to "But," I exclaimed, "our clothes, this mass of accept the difficulties of the journey so tranquilly, cord and ladders —who Will undertake to carry them with such calm indifference, with such perfect reck- down ?" lessness of all danger, that I actually blushed to ap- "They will go down of themselves." pear less of a man than he ! Had I been alone with "And how so?" I asked. my uncle, I should certainly have sat down and "You shall see." My uncle was not fond of half argued the point fully; but in the presence of the measures, nor did he like anything in the way of guide I held my tongue. I gave one moment to the hesitation. Giving his orders to Hans, he had the thought of my charming cousin, and then I advanced whole of the non-fragile articles made up into one to the mouth of the central shaft. bundle; and the packet firmly and solidly fastened, It measured about a hundred feet in diameter, was simply pitched over the edge of the gulf. which made about three hundred in circumference. I heard the moaning of the suddenly displaced air, I leaned over a rock which stood on its edge, and and the noise of falling atones. My uncle leaning looked down. My hair stood on end, my teeth chat- over the abyss followed the descent of his luggage tered, my limbs trembled, I seemed utterly to lose with a perfectly self-satisfied air, and did not rise my center of gravity, while my head was in a sort until it had completely disappeared from sight. of whirl, like that of a drunken man. There is noth- "Now then," he cried, "it is our turn." ing more powerful than this attraction towards an I put it in good faith to any man of common abyss. I was about to fall headlong into the gaping sense—was it possible to hear this energetic cry well, when I was drawn back by a firm and power- without a shudder? The Professor fastened his ease ful hand. It was that of Hans. I had not taken of instruments on his back. Hans took charge of lessons enough at the Fre!ser's-kirk of Copenhagen the tools, I of the arms. The descent then com- in the art of looking down from lofty eminences menced in the following order : Hans went first, my without blinking I uncle followed, and I went last. Our progress was However, few as the minutes were during which made in profound silence—a silence only troubled by I gazed down this tremendous and even wondrous the fall of pieces of rock, which breaking from the shaft, I had a sufficient glimpse of it to give me jagged sides, fell with a roar into the depths below. some idea of its physical conformation. Its sides, I allowed myself to slide, so to speak, holding which are almost as perpendicular as those of a frantically on the double cord with one hand and well, presented numerous projections which doubt- with the other keeping myself off the rocks by the less would assist our descent. assistance of my iron-shod pole. One idea was im- It was a sort of wild and savage staircase, with- pressed upon my brain all the time. I feared that out bannister or fence. A rope fastened above, near" the upper support would fail me. The cord appeared the surface, would certainly support our weight and to me far too fragile to bear the weight of three enable us to reach the bottom, but how, when we such persons as we were, with our luggage. I made had arrived at its nethermost depth, were we to as little use of it as possible, trusting to my own loosen it above? This was, I thought, a question agility and doing miracles in the way of feats of of some importance. dexterity and strength upon the projecting shelves My uncle, however, was, as usual prepared with and spurs of lava which my feet seemed to clutch as expedients. He hit upon a very simple method of strongly as my hands. obviating this difficulty. He unrolled a cord about The guide went first as I have said, and when as thick as my thumb, and at least four hundred one of the slippery and frail supports broke from feet in length. He allowed about half of it to under his feet he had recourse to his usual mono- go down the pit and catch in a hitch over a great syllabic way of speaking. "Gif-akt-—-" block of lava which stood on the edge of the "Attention—look out," repeated my uncle. precipice. This done, he threw the second half In about half an hour we reached a kind of after the first. small terrace firmed bv a fragment of rock pro- Each of us couid now descend by catching the jecting some distance from the sides of the shaft. !

122 AMAZING STORIES

Hans now began to haul upon the cord on one side "We have reached the end of our journey," 3aid only, the other going as quietly upward as the other the worthy Professor in a satisfied tone. came down. It fell at last, bringing with it a shower "What, the interior of the earth?" said I, slip- of small stones, lava and dust, a disagreeable kind ping down to his side. of rain or hail. "No, you stupid fellow ! but we have reached the While we were seated on this extraordinary bench bottom of the well." I ventured once more to look downwards. With a "And I suppose there is no farther progress to be sigh I discovered that the bottom was still wholly in- made?" I hopefully exclaimed. visible. Were we, then, going direct to the interior "Oh, yes, I can dimly see a sort of tunnel, which of the earth? turns off obliquely to the right. At all events, we The performance with the cord recommenced, must see about that to-morrow. Let us sup now, and a quarter of an hour later we had descended an- and seek slumber as best we may." other two hundred feet. I thought it time, but made no observations on I have very strong doubts if the most determined that point. I was fairly launched on a desperate geologist would, during that descent have studied course, and all I had to do was to go forward hope- the nature of the different layers of earth around fully and trustingly. him. I did not trouble my head much about the It was not quite dark even now, the light filtering matter; whether we were among the combustible down in a most extraordinary manner. We opened carbon Silurian, or primitive soils, I neither knew the provision bag, ate a frugal supper, and each did nor cared to know. his best to find a bed amid the pile of stones, dirt, Not so the inveterate Professor. He must have and lava which had accumulated for ages at the taken notes all the way down, for, at one of our bottom of the shaft. I happened to grope out the halts, he began a brief lecture. "The farther we pile of ropes, ladders, and clothes which we had advance," said he, "the greater is my confidence in thrown down; and upon them I stretched myself. the result. The disposition of these volcana strata After such a day's labor, my rough bed seemed as absolutely confirms the theories of Sir Humphrey soft as down! Davy. We are still within the region of the primor- For a while I lay in a sort of pleasant trance. dial soil, the soil in which took place the chemical Presently, after lying quietly for some minutes, I oxidation of metals becoming inflamed by coming in opened my eyes and looked upwards. As I did so Contact with air and water. I at once regret the old I made out a brilliant little dot, at the extremity and now for ever exploded theory of a central fire. of this long, gigantic telescope. At all events, we shall soon know the truth." It was a star without scintillating rays. Ac- Such was the conclusion to which he came. I cording to my calculation, it must be in the con- was very far from being in humor to discuss the stellation of the Little Bear. After this little bit matter. I had something else to think of. My silence of astronomical recreation, I dropped into a sound wae taken for consent; and still we continued to sleep. go down. At the expiration of three hours, we were, to all CHAPTER XV appearance, as far off as ever from the bottom WE CONTINUE OUR DESCENT of the well. When I looked upwards, however, I could see that the upper orifice was every minute eight o'clock the next morning, a faint kind decreasing in size. The sides of the shaft were ATof dawn awoke us. The thousand and one getting closer and closer together, we were ap- prisms of the lava collected the light as it proaching the regions of eternal night! passed and brought it to us like a shower of sparks. And still we continued to descend! At length, I We were able with ease to see objects around us. noticed that when pieces of stone were detached "Well, Harry, my boy," cried the delighted Pro- from the sides of this stupendous precipice, they fessor, rubbing his hands together, "what say you were swallowed up with less noise than before. The now? Did you ever pass a more tranquil night in final sound was sooner heard. We were approaching our house in the Konig Strasse? No deafening the bottom of the abyss sounds of cart-wheels, no cries of hawkers, no bad As I had been very careful to keep account of all language from boatmen or watermen 1" the changes of cord which took place, I was able to "Well, uncle, we are quiet at the bottom of this tell exactly what was the depth we had reached, as well—but to me there is something terrible in this well as the time it had taken. We had shifted the calm." rope twenty-eight times, each operation taking a "Why," said the Professor, hotly, "one would say quarter of an hour, which in all made seven hours. you were already beginning to be afraid. How will To this had to be added twenty-eight pauses; in all you get on presently? Do you know that as yet, we ten hours and a half. We had started at one, it was have not penetrated one inch into the bowels of the now, therefore, about eleven o'clock at night. earth." It does not require great knowledge of arithmetic "What can you mean, sir?" was my bewildered to know that twenty-eight times two hundred feet and astonished reply. makes five thousand six hundred feet in all (more "I mean to say that we have only just reached than an English mile). the soil of the island itself. This long vertical tube, While I was making this mental calculation a which ends at the bottom of the crater of Sneffels, voice broke the silence. It was the voice of Hans. ceases here just about on a level with the sea." "Halt!" he cried. "Are you sure, sir?" I checked myself very suddenly, just at the "Quite sure. Consult the barometer." moment when I was about to kick my uncle on the It was quite true that the mercury, after rising head. gradually in the instrument, as long as our descent !

A TRIP TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH 123 was taking place, had stopped precisely at twenty- to prevent ourselves from slipping down the steeply- nine inches. "You perceive," said the Professor, inclined plane? Happily some cracks, abrasures of "we have as yet only to endure the pressure of the soil, and other irregularities, served the place curious air. I am to replace the barometer by the of steps ; and we descended slowly, allowing our manometer." The barometer, in fact, would become heavy luggage to slip on before us, at the end of a useless as soon as the weight of the air was greater long cord. than that calculated as about the level of the ocean. But that which served as steps under our feet, "But," said I, "is it not very much to be feared became in other places stalactites. The lava, very that this ever- in creasing pressure may not in the porous in certain places, took the form of little end turn out very painful and inconvenient?" round blisters. Crystals of opaque quartz, adorned "No," said he. "We shall descend very slowly, and with limpid drops of natural glass suspended to the our lungs will be gradually accustomed to breathe roof like lusters, seemed to take fire as we passed compressed air. It is well known that aeronauts beneath them. One would have fancied that the have gone so high as to be nearly without air at all genii of romance were illuminating their under- —why, then, should we not accustom ourselves to ground palaces to receive the sons of men. breathe when we have, say a little too much of it? "Magnificent! Glorious!" I cried in a moment of For myself, I am certain I shall prefer it. Let ua involuntary enthusiasm, "what a spectacle, uncle! not lose a moment. Where is the packet which pre- Do you not admire these variegated shades of lava, ceded us in our descent?" which run through a whole series of colors, from I smilingly pointed it out to my uncle. Hans had reddish brown to pale yellow—by the most in- not seen it, and believed it caught somewhere above sensible degrees? And these crystals, they appear us; "kuype" as he phrased it. like luminous globes." "Now," said my uncle, "let us breakfast, and "You are beginning to see the charms of travel, break fast like people who have a long day's work Master Harry," cried my uncle. "Wait a bit, until we before them." advance farther. What we have as yet discovered !" Biscuit and dried meat, washed down by some is nothing—onwards, my boy, onwards mouthfuls of water flavored with schiedam, was the It would have been a far more correct and ap- material of our luxurious meal. As soon as it was propriate expression, had he said, "let us slide," for finished, my uncle took from his pocket a note-book we were going down an inclined plane with perfect destined to be filled by memoranda of our travels. ease. The compass indicated that we were moving He had already placed his instruments in order, in a south-easterly direction. The flow of lava had and this is what he wrote:—Monday, July 1st. never turned to the right or the left. It had the in- Chronometer, 8h. 17m. morning. Barometer, 29 flexibility of a straight line. inches. Thermometer, 43 degrees Fahr. Direction, Nevertheless, to my surprise, we found no per- E. S. E. ceptible increase in heat. This proved the theories This last observation referred to the obscure gal- of Humphrey Davy to be founded on truth, and lery, and was indicated to ns by the compass. more than once I found myself examining the ther- "Now, Harry," cried the Professor, in an en- mometer in silent astonishment. Two hours after thusiastic tone of voice, "we are truly about to take my departure it only marked 54 degrees Fahrenheit. our first step into the Interior of the Earth; once I had every reason to believe from this that our before visited by man since the first creation of the descent was far more horizontal than vertical. As world. You may consider, therefore, that at this for discovering the exact depth to which we had at- precise moment our travels really commence." tained, nothing could be easier. The Professor, as As my unele made this remark, he took in one he advanced, measured the angles of deviation and hand the Ruhmkorf coil apparatus, which hung inclination; but he kept the result of his observa- around his neck, and with the other he put the tions to himself. electric current in communication with the filament About eight o'clock in the evening, my uncle gave of the lantern. And a bright light at once illumined the signal for the night's rest, Hans seated himself that dark and gloomy tunnel! The effect was on the ground. The lamps were hung to fissures in magical the lava rock. We were now in a large cavern where Hans, who carried the second apparatus, had it air was not wanting. On the contrary it abounded. put into operation too. This ingenious application What could be the cause of this—to what at- of electricity to practical purposes enabled us to mospheric agitation could be ascribed this draught? move along by the light of an artificial day, amid But this was a question which I did not care to dis- even the Mow of the most inflammable and com- cuss just then. Fatigue and hunger made me in- bustible gases. capable of reasoning. An almost unceasing march "Forward!" cried my uncle. Each took up his of twelve hours had been kept up not without burden. Hans going first, my uncle following, I great exhaustion. I was really and truly worn out; going third, we entered the somber gallery! Just and delighted enough I was to hear the word "Halt." as we were about to engulf ourselves in this dismal Hans laid out some provisions on a lump of lava, passage, I lifted up my head, and through the tube- and we each supped with keen relish. One thing, like shaft I saw that Iceland sky I was never to see however, eaused us great uneasiness—our water re- again! Was it the last I should ever see of any sky? serve was already half exhausted. My uncle had full The stream of lava flowing from the bowels of the confidence in finding subterranean resources, but earth in 1229, had forced itself a passage through hitherto we had completely failed in doing so. I the tunnel. It lined the whole inside with its thick could not help calling my uncle's attention to the and brilliant coating. The electric light added very circumstance. "And are you surprised at this total greatly to the brilliancy of the effect. The great of springs?" he said. difficulty of our journey now began. How were we (Continued on page 135) Mesmeric Revelation 3y- Sdgar cAllan Toe *• WHATEVER 1 o q u y, occurring doubt may- between a sleep- still envelop walker and my- theratoinaleoiraes- self. merism, its start- I had been long ling facts are now in the habit of mes- almost universally merizing the per- admitted. Of son in question these latter, those (Mr. Van Kirk), who doubt are your and the usual acute mere doubters by susceptibility and profession—an un- exaltation of the profitable and dis- me'sraeric percep- reputable tribe. tion had super- There can be ho vened. For many more absolute months he had waste of time than been laboring un- the attempt to der confirmed prove, at the pres- phthisis, the more ent day, that man, distressing effects by mere exercise of which had been of wilt, can so im- relieved by my press his fellow, as manipulations ; and to cast him into an on the night of abnormal c o n d i- Wednesday, the fif- tion, of which the teenth instant, I phenomena resem- was summoned to ble very closely to his bedside. those of death, or The invalid was absurdity. Thei at least resemble s u ff e r i n g with 'here will be a i them more nearly irhlcll. if the aH acute pain in the us, (be region of the than they do the and th. phenomena of any heart, and breathed other normal con- with great diffi- dition within our cognizance; that, while in this culty, having all the ordinary symptoms of asthma. state, the person so impressed employs only with In spasms such as these he had usually found relief effort, and then feebly, the external organs of sense, from the application of mustard to the nervous yet perceives, with keenly refined perception, and centres, but to-night this had been attempted in through channels supposed unknown, matters be- yond the scope of the physical organs ; that, more- As I entered his room he greeted me with a cheer- over, his intellectual faculties are wonderfully ex- ful smile, and although evidently in much bodily alted and invigorated; that his pain, he appeared to be, men- ^H^^H tally, quite at ease. impressing him are profound; "I sent for you to-night," he /N THE last century finally, that his suscepti- said, "not so much to administer and, excited a great deal of attention bility to the impression increase! and that quite famous lady Har- to my bodily ailment, as to sat- with its frequency, while, in the riet Martirteau, a very celebrated isfy me concerning certain psy- same proportion, the peculiar writer in her day and one of the chal impressions which, of late, severest critics early America- ever phenomena elicited are more have occasioned me much anx- Iiad, figured as one of its believers, and extended more pronounced, iety and surprise. I need not tell and here Edgar Allan Poe uses it for a I say that these—which are frame work to surround some of his you how sceptical I have hitherto the laws of mesmerism in its views on spiritual matter and the here- been on the topic of the soul'3 after. If is a great mistake to take general features it would be immortality. I cannot deny that — this favorite author as only an agree- there has existed, as if supererogation to demonstrate; able fiction writer, arid it is impossible always nor shall I inflict upon my read- not to feel that had his life been dif- in that very soul which I have ers so needless a demonstration ferent, had he not been overshadowed been denying, a vague half-senti- by poverty, and had he not led so to-day. purpose at present ment of its own existence. But My troubled an existence, he would have is a very different one indeed. figured as an enlightened philosopher, this half- sentiment at no time I am impelled, even in the teeth amounted to conviction. With it moved from the disagreeable pes- of a world of prejudice, to detail my reason had nothing to do. All simism so prevalent of the present day. without comment the very re- attempts at logical inquiry re- markable substance of a col- sulted, indeed, in leaving me —

MESMERIC REVELATION 125 more sceptical than before. I had been advised to it is no matter. The mesmeric condition is so near study Cousin. I studied him in his own works a3 death as to content me. well as in those of his European and American P. I wish you would explain yourself, Mr. Van echoes. The 'Charles Elwood' of Mr. Brownson, for Kirk. example, was placed in my hands. I read it with V. I am willing to do so, but it requires more profound attention. Throughout I found it logical, effort than I feel able to make. You do not question but the portions which were not merely logical me properly. were unhappily the initial arguments of the dis- P. What then shall I ask? believing hero of the book. In his summing up it V. You must begin at the beginning. seemed evident to me that the reasoner had not even P. The beginning! but where is the beginning? succeeded in convincing himself. His end had V. You know that the beginning is God. [This plainly forgotten his beginning, like the govern- Was said in a low, fluctuating tone, and with every ment of Trinculo. In short, I was not long in per- sign of the most -profound veneration.] ceiving that if man is to be intellectually convinced P. What then is God? of his own immortality, he will never be so con- V. [Hesitating for many minutes.] I cannot tell. vinced by the mere abstractions which have been P. Is not God spirit? so long the fashion of the moralists of England, of V. While I was awake, I knew what you meant by France, and of Germany. Abstractions may amuse "spirit," hut now it seems only a worn—such for and exercise, but take no hold on his mind. Here instance as truth, beauty—a quality, I mean. upon earth, at least philosophy, I am persuaded, P. Is not God immaterial? will always in vain call upon us to look upon qualities V. There is no immateriality—it is a mere word. as things. The will may assent—the soul—the in- That which is not matter, is not at all—unless quali- tellect, never. ties are things. "I repeat, then, that I only half felt, and never P. Is God, then, material? intellectually believed. But latterly there has been V. No. [This rebiy s far lied me very much.] a certain deepening of the feeling, until it has come P. What then is he? so nearly to resemble V. the acquiescence of reason, [After along pause and mwtteringl ;!.] I see that I find it difficult to distinguish between the but it is a thing difficult to tell. [Another long two. I enabled, am too, plainly to trace effect to pause.] He is not spirit, for he exists. Nor is he the mesmeric influence. I cannot better explain this matter, as you understand it. But there are grada- my meaning than by the hypothesis that the mes- tions of matter of which man knows nothing; the meric exaltation enables me to perceive a train of grosser impelling the finer, the finer pervading the ratiocination which, in my abnormal existence, con- grosser. The atmosphere, for example, impels the vinces, but which, in full accordance with the mes- electric principle, while the electric principle per- meric phenomena, does not extend, except through meates the atmosphere. These gradations of mat- its effect, into my normal condition. In sleep-wak- ter increase in rarity of fineness, until we arrive at ing, the reasoning and its conclusion—the cause and a matter unparticled — without particles — undivi- its effect—are present together. In my natural sible—owe; and here the law of impulsion and per- state, the cause vanishing, the effect only, and per- meation is modified. The ultimate, or unparticled haps only partially, remains. matter, not only permeates all things but impels all "These considerations have led me to think that things—and thus is all things within itself. This some good results might ensue from a series of matter is God. What men attempt to embody in the well-directed questions propounded to me while word "thought," is this matter in motion. mesmerized. You have often observed the profound P. The metaphysicians maintain that all action self-cognizance observed by the sleep-waker—the is reducible to motion and thinking, and that the extensive knowledge he displays upon all points re- latter is the origin of the former. lating to the mesmeric condition itself; and from V. Yes; and I now see the confusion of idea. Mo- this self-cognizance may be deduced hints for the tion is the action of mind—not of thinking. The proper conduct of a catechism." unparticled matter, or God, in quiescence, is (as I consented, of course, to make this experiment. nearly as we can conceive it) what men call mind. A few passes threw Mr. Van Kirk into the mesmeric And the power of self-movement (equivalent in sleep. His breathing became immediately more effect to human volition) is, in the unparticled mat- easy, and he seemed to suffer physical no uneasi- ter, the result of its unity and omniprevalence ; how ness. The following conversation then ensued:—V. I know not, and now clearly see that I shall never in the dialogue representing the patient, and P. know. But the unparticled matter, set in motion myself. by law, or quality, existing within itself, is thinking. P. Are yoa asleep? P. Can you give me no more precise idea of what V. Yes—no; I would rather sleep more soundly. you term the unparticled matter? P. [After a few more passes.} Do you sleep V. The matters of which man is cognizant, escape ?" now the senses in gradation. We have, for example, V. Yes. a metal, a piece of wood, a drop of water, the atmos- P. How do you think your present illness will phere, a gas, caloric, electricity, the luminiferous result ? ether. Now we call ail these things matter, and V. [After a long hesitation and speaking as if embrace all matter in one general definition ; but in with effort.] I must die. spite of this, there can be no two ideas more essen- P. Does the idea of death afflict you? tially distinct than that which we attach to a metal, P. [Very quickly.] No—no! and that which we attach to the luminiferous ether. P. Are you pleased with the prospect? When we reach the latter, we feel an almost irre- V. If I were awake I should like to die, but now sistible inclination to class it with spirit, or with [126 AMAZING STORIES nihility. The only consideration which restrains us or "spirit" of the schools, bo far as regards its high ia our conception of its atomic constitution; and capacities, and is moreover, the "matter" of these here, even, we have to seek aid from our notion schools at the same time. God, with all the powers of an atom, as something possessing, in infinite attributed to spirit, is but the perfection of matter. minuteness, solidity, palpability, weight. Destroy P. You assert, then, that the unparticled matter, the idea of the atomic constitution, and we should in motion, is thought? no longer be able to regard the ether as an entity, V". In general, this motion is the universal or at least as matter. For want of a better word thoughts of the universal mind. This thought we might term it spirit. Take, now, a step beyond creates. All created things are but the thoughts the himiniferous ether—conceive a matter as much of God. more rare than the ether, as this ether is more rare P. You say, "in general." than the metal, and we arrive at once (in spite of V. Yes. The universal mind is God. For new all the school dogmas) at a unique mass—an un- individualities matter is necessary. partieled matter. For although we may admit in- P. But you now speak of "mind" and "matter" finite littleness in the atoms themselves, the infini- as do the metaphysicians. tude of littleness in the spaces between them is an V. Yes—to avoid confusion. When I say "mind," absurdity. will be There a point—there will be I mean the unparticled or ultimate matter ; by "mat- a degree of rarity, at which, if the atoms are suffi- ter," I intend all else. ciently numerous, the interspaces must vanish, and P. You were saying that "for new individualities the mass absolutely coalesce. But the consideration matter is necessary." of the atomic constitution being now taken away, V. Yes; for mind, existing un in corporate, is the nature of the mass inevitably glides into what merely God. To create individual, thinking beings, we conceive as spirit. It is clear, however, that it was necessary to incarnate portions of the divine it is as fully matter as before. The truth is, it is mind. Thus man is individualized. Divested of impossible to conceive spirit, since it is impossible corporate investure, he were God. Now, the partic- to imagine what is not. When we flatter ourselves ular motion of the incarnated portions of the un- that we have formed ita conception, we have merely particled matter is the thought of man, as the mo- deceived our understanding by the consideration of tion of the whole is that of God. infinitely rarefied matter. P. You say that divested of the body man will P. There seems to me an insurmountable objec- be God? tion to the idea of absolute coalescence; —and that V. [After much hesitation.'] I could not have is the very slight resistance experienced by the said this; it is an absurdity. heavenly bodies in their revolutions through apace P. [Referring to my notes.] You did say "that —a resistance now ascertained, it is true, to exist divested of corporate investiture man were God." in some degree, but which is, nevertheless, ao slight V. And this is true. Man thus divested would be as to have been quite overlooked by the sagacity God—would be unindividualized. But he can never even of Newton. We know that the resistance of be thus divested—at least never will be—else we bodies is, chiefly, in proportion to their density. Ab- must imagine an action of God returning upon itself solute coalescence ia absolute density. Where there —a purposeless and futile action. Man is a crea- are no interspaces, there can be no yielding. An ture. Creatures are thoughts of God. It is the ether, absolutely dense, would put an infinitely more nature of thought to be irrevocable. effectual stop to the progress of a star than would P. I do not comprehend. You say that man will an ether of adamant or of iron. never put off the body? V. Your objection is answered with an ease which V. I say that he will never be bodiless. is nearly in the ratio of its apparent unanswer- P. Explain. ably.—As regards the progress of the star, it can V. There are two bodies—the rudimental and the make no difference whether the star passes through complete, corresponding with the two conditions of through the ether or the ether it. There is no the worm and the butterfly. What we call "death" astronomical error more unaccountable than that is but the painful metamorphosia. Our present in- reconcilea retardation which the known of the carnation is progressive, preparatory, temporary. comets with the idea of their passage through an Our future is perfected, ultimate, immortai. The ether for, rare this ether however be supposed, it ultimate life is the full design. would put a stop to all sidereal revolution in a very P. But of the worm's metamorphosia we are pal- far briefer period than has been admitted by those pably cognizant. astronomers who have endeavored to slur over a V. We, certainly—but not the worm. The matter point which they found it impossible to comprehend. of which our rudimentai body is composed is within The retardation actually experienced ia, on the the ken of the organs of that body; or, more dis- other hand, about that which might be expected tinctly, our rudimental organs are adapted to the from the friction of the ether in the instantaneous matter of which is formed the rudimental body; pasaage through the orb. In the one case, the re- but not to that of which the ultimate is composed. tarding force ia momentary and complete within The ultimate body thus escapes our rudimental itself in the other it ia endlessly accumulative. — senses, and we perceive only the shell which falls, P. But in all this—in this identification of mere in decaying, from the inner form; not that inner matter with God—is there nothing of irreverence? form itself; but this inner form, as well as the shell, [I was forced to repeat this question before the is appreciable by those who have already acquired sleep-waker fully comprehended my meaning.] the ultimate life. V. Can you say why matter should be less rever- P. You have often said that the mesmeric state enced than mind? But you forget that the matter very nearly resembles death. How is this? of which I apeak ia, in all respects, the very "mind" V. When I say that it resembles death, I mean —

MESMERIC REVELATION 127 that it resembles the ultimate life; for when I am rudimental life, there would have been no stars. entranced the senses of my rudimental life are in But why this necessity? abeyance, and I perceive external things directly, V. In the inorganic life, as well as in the inor- without organs, through a medium which I shall ganic matter generally, there is nothing to impede employ in the ultimate, unorganized life. the action of one simple unique law—the Divine P. Unorganized? Volition. With the view of producing impediment, V. Yes; organs are contrivances by which the the organic life and matter (complex, substantial, individual is brought into sensible relation with par- and law-encumbered) were contrived. ticular classes and forms of matter, to the exclusion P. But again—why need this impediment have of other classes and forms. The organs of man been produced? are adapted to his rudimental condition, and to that V. The result of law inviolate is perfection only; his ultimate condition, being unorganized, is right—negative happiness. The result of law vio- of unlimited comprehensions in all points but one late is imperfection, wrong, positive pain. Through —the nature of the volition of God—that is to say, the impediments afforded by the number, com- the motion of the unpartieled matter. You will have plexity, and substantiality of the laws of organic life a distinct idea of the ultimate body by conceiving and matter, the violation of law is rendered, to a it to be entire brain. This it is not; but a concep- certain extent, practicable. Thus pain, which in the tion of this nature will bring you near a compre- inorganic life is impossible, is possible in the or- hension of what it is. A luminous body imparts ganic. vibration to the luminiferous ether. The vibrations P. And to what good end is pain thus rendered generate similar ones within the retina; these again communicate similar ones to the optic nerve. The V. All things are either good or bad by com- nerve conveys similar ones to the brain; the brain, parison. A sufficient analysis will show that pleas- also, similar ones to the unpartieled matter which ure, in all cases, is but the contrast of pain. Posi- permeates it. The motion of this latter is thought, tive pleasure is a mere idea. To be happy at any one of which perception is the first undulation. This point we must have suffered at the same. Never is the mode by which the mind of the rudimental to suffer would have been never to have been life communicates with the external world; and this blessed. But it has been shown that in the inor- external world is, to the rudimental life, limited ganic life, pain cannot be; thos the necessity for through the idiosyncrasy of its organs. But in the the organic. The pain of the primitive life of Earth ultimate, unorganized life, the external world is the sole basis of the bliss of the ultimate life in reaches the whole body (which is of a substance Heaven. having affinity to brain, as I have said) with no P. Still there is one of your expressions which other intervention than that of an infinitely rarer I find it impossible to comprehend—"the truly sub- ether than even the luminiferous ; and to this ether stantive vastness of infinity." —in unison with it—the whole body vibrates, setting V. This, probably, is because you have no suffi- in motion the unpartieled matter which permeates ciently generic conception of the term "substance" it. It is to the absence of idiosyncratic organs, itself. We must not regard it as a quality, but a3 therefore, that we must attribute the nearly unlim- a sentiment:—it is the perception, in thinking ited perception of the ultimate life. To rudimental beings, of the adaptation of matter to their organi- beings, organs are the cages necessary to confine zation. There are many things on the Earth which them until fledged. would be nihility to the inhabitant of Venus—many P. You speak of rudimental "beings." Are there things visible and tangible in Venus, which we could other rudimental thinking beings than man? not be brought to appreciate as existing at all. But, V. The multitudinous conglomeration of rare to the inorganic beings—to the angels—the whole matter into nebulas, planets, suns, and other bodies of the unpartieled matter is substance; that is to which are neither nebula?, suns, nor planets, is for say, the whole of what we term "space" is to them the sole purpose of supplying pabulum for the idio- the truest substantiality—the stars, meantime, syncrasy of the organs of an infinity of rudimental through what we consider their materiality, escap- beings. But for the necessity of the rudimental, ing the angelic sense, just in proportion as the prior to the ultimate life, there would have been unpartieled matter, through what we consider its no bodies such as these. Each of these is tenanted immateriality, eludes the organic. by a distinct variety of organic, rudimental, think- As the sleep-waker pronounced these latter word3 ing creature. all, In the organs vary with the in a feeble tone, I observed on his countenance a features of the place tenanted. At death, or meta- singular expression, which somewhat alarmed me, morphosis, these creatures, enjoying the ultimate and induced me to awake him at once. No sooner life—immortality—and cognizant of all secrets but had I done this than, with a bright smile irradiating the one act all things and pass everywhere by mere all his features, he fell back upon his pillow and volition: indwelling, — not the stars, which to us expired. I noticed that in less than a minute after- seem the sole palpabilities, and for the accommoda- ward his corpse had all the stern rigidity of stone. tion of which we blindly deem space created—but His brow was of the coldness of ice. Thus, ordi- that space itself—that infinity of which the truly narily, should it have appeared, only after long pres- substantive vastness swallows up the star-shadows sure from Azrael's hand. Had the sleep-waker, blotting them — out as non-entities from the percep- indeed, during the latter portion of his discourse, tion of the angels. been addressing me from out the region of the P. You say that "but for the necessity of the THE ftfie Crystal egg v - ®ifH.q.cWills -

of water. The air seemed full of THE CRYSTAL EGG 129

flHERE was, until a year ago, a little and the latter's face was white. "It's a lot of money," very grimy-looking shop near Seven said the clergyman, and diving into his pocket, Dials, over which, in weather-worn began counting his resources. He had little more yellow lettering, the name of "C. Cave, than thirty shillings, and he appealed to his com- Naturalist and Dealer in Antiquities," panion, with whom he seemed to be on terms was inscribed. The contents of its window were of considerable intimacy. This gave Mr, Cave an curiously variegated. They comprised some ele- opportunity of collecting his thoughts, and he began phant tusks and an imperfect set of chessmen, to explain in an agitated manner that the crystal beads and weapons, a box of glass eyes, two skulls was not, as a matter of fact, entirely free for of tigers and one human, several moth-eaten stuffed sale. His two customers were naturally surprised monkeys (one holding a lamp), an old-fashioned at this, and inquired why he had not thought of cabinet, a fly-blown ostrich egg or so, some fishing- that before he began to bargain. Mr. Cave became tackle, and an extraordinary dirty, empty glass confused, but he stuck to his story, that the crystal fish-tank. There was also, at the moment the story was not in the market that afternoon, that a prob- begins, a mass of crystal, worked into the shape able purchaser of it had already appeared. The of an egg and brilliantly polished. And at that two, treating this as an attempt to raise the price two people, who stood outside the window, were still further, made as if they would leave the looking, one of them a tall, thin clergyman, the shop. But at this point the parlor door opened, and other a black-bearded young man of dusky com- the owner of the dark fringe and the little eyes plexion and unobtrusive costume. The dusky young appeared. man spoke with eager gesticulation, and seemed She was a coarse-featured, corpulent woman, 9 for his companion to purchase the article- younger and very much larger than Mr. Cave ; she While they were there, Mr. Cave came into his walked heavily, and her face was flushed. "That shop, his beard still wagging with the bread and crystal is for sale," she said. "And five pounds is butter of his tea. When he saw these men and the good price for it. I can't think what you're about, object of their regard, his countenance fell. He Cave, not to take the gentleman's offer!" glanced guiltily over his shoulder, and softly shut Mr. Cave, greatly perturbed by the interruption, the door. He was a little old man, with pale face looked angrily at her over the rims of his spectacles, and, without excessive assurance, asserted his right and peculiar watery blue eyes ; his hair was a dirty grey, and he wore a shabby blue frock-coat, an to manage his business in his own way. An al- ancient silk hat, and carpet slippers very much tercation began. The two customers watched the down at the heel. He remained watching the two men scene with interest and some amusement, occasion- as they talked. The clergyman went deep into his ally assisting Mrs. Cave with suggestions. Mr. trouser pocket, examined a handful of money, and Cave, hard driven, persisted in a confused and im- showed his teeth in an agreeable smile. Mr. Cave possible story of an inquiry for the crystal that morning, and his agita- 1 still more depres- sed when they came into tion became painful. But the shop. he stuck to his point with The clergyman, without fJERB is a tremendous story by one of the greatest liv- extraordinary persistence. writers. Here a story that will any ceremony, asked the ing scientific lion is It was the young Oriental keep yon guessing to the end—a story which will recur to price of the crystal egg. who ended this curious your mhld many years hence. Mr. Wells' imagination is ner- controversy. He proposed Mr. Cave glanced not running loose—he hiatus his science—and while the that they should call vously towards the door story at first glance may seem entirety too fantastic, no in leading into the parlor, one knows but that it may, 5,000 years from now be quite again the course of two and said five pounds. The tame and of every day occurrence. days — so as to give the clergyman protested to his If a civilisation on mother world were sometime to com- alleged enquirer a fair companion as well as to municate with us, there miijlil he thousands of methods, to chance. "And then we undreamt by which this conk! be achieved. The Mr. Cave, that the price ns of, must insist," said the cler- crystal egg method ivhich Mr. Wells -uses in this story high it was, indeed, gyman. "Five pounds." was — may be one of them-. We zuho ore aeeusiomed to radio and than Mr. Mrs. Cave took it on her- very much more who can bring voices out of the thin air with a pocket radio self to apologize for her Cave had intended to ask, receptor, will not think that the crystal egg is impossible when he had stocked the of fulfillment at some future date. husband, explaining that article—and an attempt at We recommend this amazing story to you. he was sometimes "a little bargaining ensued. Mr. ^^^^^^^^^^^^ odd," and as the two cus- Cave 3tepped to the shop- ^^^^^^KS^^^^M ^—MHWMi tomers left, the couple door, and held it open. prepared for a free dis- "Five pounds is my price," he said, as though he cussion of the incident in all its bearings. wished to save himself the trouble of unprofitable Mrs. Cave talked to her husband with singular di- discussion. A3 he did so, the upper portion of a rectness. The poor little man, quivering with emo- woman's face appeared above the blind in the glass tion, muddled himself between his stories, main- upper panel of the door leading into the parlor, taining on the one hand that he had another cus- and stared curiously at the two customers. "Five tomer in view, and on the other asserting that the honestly ten guineas. did pounds is my price," said Mr. Cave, with a quiver crystal was worth "Why in his voice. you ask five pounds?" said his wife. "Do let me The swarthy young man had so far remained a manage my business my own way!" said Mr. Cave. spectator watching Cave keenly. Now he spoke. Mr. Cave bad living with him a step-daughter "Give him five pounds," he said. The clergyman and a step-son, and at supper that night the glanced at him to see if he were in earnest, and, transaction was rediscussed. None of them had when he looked at Mr. Cave again, he saw that a very high opinion of Mr. Cave's business meth- '

130 AMAZING STORIES ods, and this action seemed a culminating folly. "The crystal! Where did you hide the crystal?" "It's my opinion he's refused that crystal be- At that Mr. Cave, apparently much surprised, fore," said the step-son, a loose-limbed lout of rushed to the window. "Isn't it here?" he said. eighteen. "Great Heavens! what has become of it?" "But Five Pounds!" said the step-daughter, an Just then, Mr. Cave's step-son re-entered the argumentative young woman of six-and-twenty. shop from the inner room—he had come home Mr. Cave's answers were wretehed; he could a minute or so before Mr. Cave—and he'was blas- only mumble weak assertions that he knew his pheming freely. He was apprenticed to a second- own business best. They drove him from his hand furniture dealer down the road, but he had half-eaten supper into the shop, to close it for the his meals at home, and he was naturally annoyed night, his ears aflame and tears of vexation behind to find no dinner ready. his spectacles. "Why had he left the crystal in But, when he heard of the loss of the crystal, the window so long? The folly of it!" That was he forgot his meal, and his anger was diverted the trouble closest to his mind. For a time he could from his mother to his step-father. Their first see no way of evading the sale. idea, of course, was that he had hidden it. But After supper his step-daughter and step-son Mr. Cave stoutly denied all knowledge of its fate smartened themselves up and went out. His wife —freely offering his bedabbled affidavit in the mat- retired upstairs and over a little sugar and lemon ter—and at last was worked up to the point of ac- and so forth, in hot water, reflected upon the busi- cusing, first, his wife and then his step-son of hav- ness aspects of the crystal. Mr. Cave went into the ing taken it with a view to a private sale. So shop, and stayed there until late, ostensibly to make began an exceedingly acrimonious and emotional ornamental rockeries for gold-fish globes but really discussion, which ended for Mrs. Cave in a peculiar for a private purpose that will be better explained nervous condition midway between hysterics and half-an-hour later. The next day Mrs. Cave found that the amuck, and caused the step-son to be afternoon. crystal had been removed from the window, and late at the furniture establishment in the was lying behind some second-hand books on Mr. Cave took refuge from his wife's emotions in angling. She replaced it in a conspicuous position. the shop. resumed, with less But she did not argue further about it, as a nervous In the evening the topic was headache disinclined her from debate. Mr. Cave passion and in a more judicial spirit, under the was always disinclined. The day passed disagree- presidency of the step-daughter. The supper passed painful scene. Mr. Cave ably. Mr. Cave was, if anything, more absent- unhappily and ended in a minded than usual, and uncommonly irritable gave way at last to extreme exasperation, and went the front door violently. rest of withal. In the afternoon, when his wife was taking out banging The discussed the free- her customary sleep, he removed the crystal from the family, having him with warranted, hunted the house the window again. dom which his absence The next day Mr. Cave had to deliver a con- from garret to cellar, hoping to light upon the signment of dog-fish at one of the hospital schools, crystal. customers called again. where they were needed for dissection. In his ab- The next day the two were received by Mrs. Cave almost in tears. sence, Mrs. Cave's mind reverted to the topic of the They It transpired that no one could imagine all that she crystal, and the methods of expenditure suitable to had stood from Cave at various times in her mar- a windfall of five pounds. She had already devised pilgrimage. . . . She also gave a garbled some very agreeable expedients, among others a ried account of the disappearance. The clergyman and dress of green silk for herself and a trip to Rich- another, and mond, when a jangling of the front door bell sum- the Oriental laughed silently at one said it was extraordinary. As Mrs. Cave seemed moned her into the shop. The customer was an the complete history of her examination coach, who came to complain of the disposed to give them life they to leave the shop. Thereupon Mrs. non-delivery of certain frogs asked for on the pre- made Cave, still clinging to hope, asked for the clergy- vious day. Mrs. Cave did not approve of this par- man's address, so that, if she could get anything out ticular branch of Mr. Cave's business, and the might communicate it. The address gentleman, who had called in a somewhat aggressive of Cave, she duly given, but apparently was afterwards •mood, retired after a brief exchange of words— was mislaid. Mrs. Cave can remember nothing about it. entirely civil so far as he was concerned. Mrs. By the evening of that day, the Caves seem to Cave's eye then naturally turned to the window; have exhausted their emotions, and Mr. Cave, who for the sight of the crystal was an assurance of was her had been out in the afternoon, supped in a gloomy five pounds and of her dreams. What isolation that contrasted pleasantly with the im- surprise to find it gone! passioned controversy of the previous days. For She went to the place behind the locker on the be- time matters were very badly strained in the counter, where she had discovered it the day some began Cave household, but neither crystal nor customer fore. It was not there; and she immediately an eager search about the shop. mincing the matter, we must admit When Mr. Cave returned from his business about Now, without that Mr. Cave was a liar. He knew perfectly well the dog-fish, about a quarter to two in the after- where the crystal was. It was in the rooms of Mr. noon, he found the shop in some confusion, and his Jacoby Wace, Assistant Demonstrator at St. wife, extremely exasperated and on her knees be- Hospital, Westbourne Street. It stood hind the counter, routing among his taxidermic Catherine's on the sideboard partially covered by a black velvet material. Her face came up hot and angry over American whisky. It is the jangling bell announced his re- cloth, beside a decanter of the counter, as upon "hiding it. from Mr. Wace, indeed, that the particulars turn, and she forthwith accused him of narrative is based were derived. Cave "Hid what?" asked Mr. Cave. which this THE CRYSTAL EGG 131 had taken the thing off to the hospital hidden in ent points of view, he suddenly found that he had the dog-fish sack, and there had pressed the young come between it and the ray, and that the crystal investigator to keep it for him. Mr. Wace was a none the less remained luminous. Greatly as- little dubious at first. His relationship to Cave was tonished, he lifted it out of the light ray and car- peculiar. He had a taste for singular characters, ried it to the darkest part of the shop. It remained and he had more than once invited the old man bright for some four or five minutes, then it slowly to smoke and drink in his rooms, and to unfold his faded and went out. He placed it in the thin streak rather amusing views of life in general and of his of daylight, and its luminousness was almost im- wife in particular. Mr. Wace had encountered Mrs. mediately restored. Cave, too, on occasions when Mr. Cave was not at So far, at least, Mr. Wace was able to verify home to attend to him. He knew the constant inter- the remarkable story of Mr. Cave. He had himself ference to which Cave was subjected, and having repeatedly held this crystal in a ray of light (which weighed the story judicially, he decided to give the had to be of a smaller diameter than one milli- crystal a refuge. Mr. Cave promised to explain the metre). And in a perfect darkness, such as could reasons for his remarkable affection for the crystal be produced by velvet wrapping, the crystal did more fully on a later occasion, but he spoke dis- undoubtedly appear very faintly phosphorescent. It tinctly of seeing visions therein. He called on Mr. would seem, however, that the luminousness was of Wace the same evening. some exceptional sort, and not equally visible to He told a complicated story. The crystal he said all eyes; for Mr. Harbinger—whose name will be had come into his possession with other oddments familiar to the scientific reader in connection with at the forced sale of another curiosity dealer's the Pasteur Institute—was quite unable to see any effects, and not knowing what its value might be, light whatever. And Mr. Wace's own capacity for he had ticketed it at ten shillings. It had hung its appreciation was out of comparison inferior to upon his hands at that price for some months, and that of Mr. Cave's. Even with Mr. Cave the power he was thinking of "reducing the figure," when he varied very considerably ; his vision was most vivid made a singular discovery. during states of extreme weakness and fatigue. At that time his health was very bad—and it must Now, from the outset this light in the crystal be borne in mind that, throughout all this experi- exercised a curious fascination upon Mr. Cave. And ence, his physical condition was one of ebb—and it says more for his loneliness of soul than a volume he was in considerable distress by reason of the of pathetic writing could do, that he told no human negligence, the positive ill-treatment even, he re- being of his curious observations. He seems to have ceived from his wife and step -children. His wife been living in such an atmosphere of petty spite that was vain, extravagant, unfeeling, and had a grow- to admit the existence of a pleasure would have ing taste for private drinking; his step-daughter been to risk the loss of it. He found that as the advanced, and the amount of diffused light was mean and over-reaching ; and his step-son had dawn conceived a violent dislike for him, and lost no increased, the crystal became to all appearance non- opportunity of showing it. The requirements of his luminous. And for some time he was unable to business pressed heavily upon him, and Mr. Wace see anything in it, except at night-time, in dark does not think that he was altogether free from corners of the shop. occasional intemperance. He had begun life in a But the use of an old velvet cloth, which he used comfortable position, he was a man of fair educa- as a background for a collection of minerals, oc- tion, and he suffered, for weeks at a stretch, from curred to him, and by doubling this, and putting it melancholia and insomnia. Afraid to disturb his over his head and hands, he was able to get a slight family, he would slip quietly from his wife's side, luminous movement within the crystal even in the when his thoughts became intolerable, and wander day-time. He was very cautious lest he should be about the house. And about three o'clock one morn- thus discovered by his wife, and he practised this ing, late in August, chance directed him into the occupation only in the afternoons, while she was shop. asleep upstairs, and then circumspectly in a hollow The dirty little place was impenetrably black ex- under the counter. And one day, turning the crystal cept in one spot, where he perceived an unusual glow about in his hands, he saw something. It came of light. Approaching this, he discovered it to be and went like a flash, but it gave him the impression the crystal egg, which was standing on the corner that the object had for a moment opened to him the of the counter towards the window. A thin ray view of a wide and spacious and strange country; shot through a crack in the shutters, impinged upon and, turning it about, he did, just as the light the object, and seemed as it were to fill its entire faded, see the same vision again. interior. Now, it would be tedious and unnecessary to state It occurred to Mr. Cave that this was not in all the phases of Mr. Cave's discovery from this accordance with the laws of optics as he had known point. Suffice that the effect was this: the crystal, them in his younger days. He could understand being peered into at an angle of about 137 degrees the rays being reflected by the crystal and coming from the direction of the illuminating ray, gave a peculiar to a focus in its interior, but this diffusion jarred clear and consistent picture of a wide and iH pro- with his physical conceptions. He approached the country-side. It was not dream-like at : it crystal more nearly, peering into it and around duced a definite impression of reality, and the better real solid it seemed. It was it, with a transient revival of the scientific curiosity the light the more and that in his youth had determined his choice of a a moving picture: that is to say, certain objects like calling. He was surprised to find the light not moved in it, but slowly in"- an orderly manner steady, but writhing within the substance of the real things, and, according a3 the direction of the changed egg, as though that object was a hollow sphere of lighting and vision changed, the picture some luminous vapor. In moving about to get differ- also. It must, indeed, have been like looking through —

132 AMAZING STORIES an oval glass at a view, and turning the glass about ley exactly parallel with the distant cliffs, was a to get at different aspects. broad and mirror-like expanse of water. The air Mr, Cave's statements, Mr. Waee assures me, seemed full of squadrons of great birds, manoeuvr- were extremely circumstantial, and entirely free ing in stately curves; and across the river was a from any of that emotional quality that taints multitude of splendid buildings, richly coloured and hallucinatory impressions. But it must be remem- glittering with metallic tracery and facets, among bered that all the efforts of Mr. Wace to see with a forest of moss-like and lichenous trees. And sud- any similar clarity in the faint opalescence of the denly something flapped repeatedly across the vision, crystal were wholly unsuccessful, try as he would. like the fluttering of a jewelled fan or the beating The difference in intensity of the impressions re- of a wing, and a face, or rather the upper part of ceived by the two men was very great, and it is quite a face with very large eyes, came as it were close conceivable that what was a view to Mr. Cave was to his own and as if on the other side of the crystal. a mere blurred nebulosity to Mr. Wace. Mr. Cave was so startled and so impressed by the The view, as Mr. Cave described it, was invari- absolute reality of these eyes, that he drew his head ably of an extensive plain, and he seemed always back from the crystal to look behind it. He had to be looking at it from a considerable height, as if become so absorbed in watching that he was quite from a tower or a mast. To the east and to the west surprised to find himself in the cool darkness of his the plain was bounded at a remote distance by vast little shop, with its familiar odor of methyl alcohol, reddish cliffs, which reminded him of those he had mustiness, and decay. And, as he blinked about seen in some picture; but what the picture was Mr. him, the glowing crystal faded, and went out. Wace was unable to ascertain. These cliffs passed Such were the first general impressions of Mr. north and south—he could tell the points of the Cave. The story is curiously direct and circum- compass by the stars that were visible of a night stantial. From the outset, when the valley first receding in an almost illimitable perspective and flashed momentarily on his senses, his imagination fading into the mists of the distance before they was strangely affected, and, as he began to appre- met. He was nearer the eastern set of cliffs, on ciate the details of the scene he saw, his wonder rose the occasion of his first vision the sun was rising to the point of a passion. He went about his busi- over them, and black against the sunlight and pale ness listless and distraught, thinking only of the against their shadow appeared a multitude of soar- time when he should be able to return to his watch- ing forms that Mr. Cave regarded as birds. A vast ing. And then a few weeks after his first sight range of buildings spread below him; he seemed to of the valley came the two customers, the stress be looking down upon them; and, as they approached and excitement of their offer, and the narrow escape the blurred and refracted edge of the picture, they of the crystal from sale, as I have already told. became indistinct. There were also trees curious in Now, while the thing was Mr. Cave's secret, it shape, and in coloring, a deep mossy green and an remained a mere wonder, a thing to creep to covert- exquisite grey, beside a wide and shining canal. ly and peep at, as a child might peep upon a for- And something great and brilliantly colored flew bidden garden. But Mr. Wace has, for a young across the picture. But the first time Mr. Cave saw scientific investigator, a particularly lucid and con- these pictures he saw only in flashes, his hands shook, secutive habit of mind. Directly the crystal and his head moved, the vision came and went, and its story came to him, and he had satisfied himself, grew foggy and indistinct. And at first he had by seeing the phosphorescence with his own eyes, the greatest difficulty in finding the picture again that there really was a certain evidence for Mr. once the direction of it was lost, Cave's statements, he proceeded to develop the mat- : His next clear vision, which came about a week ter systematically. Mr. Cave was only too eager to after the first, the interval having yielded nothing come and feast his eyes on this wonderland he saw, but tantalizing glimpses and some useful experi- and he came every night from half-past eight until ence, showed him the view down the length of the half-past ten, and sometimes, in Mr. Wace's absence, valley. The view was different but he had a curious during the day. On Sunday afternoons also, he persuasion, which his subsequent observations came. From the outset Mr. Wace made copious abundantly confirmed, that he was regarding this notes, and it was due to his scientific method that strange world from exactly the same spot, although the relation between the direction from which the he was looking in a different direction. The long initiating ray entered the crystal and the orienta- facade of the great building, whose roof he had tion of the picture were proved. And, by cover- looked down upon before, was now receding in per- ing the crystal in a box perforated only with a small spective. He recognized the roof. In the front of aperture to admit the exciting ray, and by sub- the facade was a terrace of massive proportions stituting black holland for his buff blinds, he greatly and extraordinary length, and down the middle of improved'the conditions of the observations; so that the terrace, at certain intervals, stood huge but in a little while they were able to survey the valley very graceful masts, bearing small shiny objects in any direction they desired. which reflected the setting sun. The import of these So, having cleared the way, we may give a brief small objects did not occur to Mr. Cave until some account of this visionary world within the crystal. time after, as he was describing the scene to Mr. The things were in all cases seen by Mr. Cave, and Wace. The terrace overhung a thicket of the most his method of working was invariably to watch the luxuriant and graceful vegetation, and beyond this crystal and report what he saw, while Mr. Wace was a wide grassy lawn on which certain broad crea- (who as a science student had learned the trick of tures, in form iike beetles but enormously larger, writing in the dark) wrote a brief note of his re- reposed. Beyond this again was a richly decorated port. When the crystal faded, it was put into its causeway of pinkish stone; and beyond that, and box in the proper position and the electric light lined with dense red weeds, and passing up the val- turned on. Mr. Wace asked questions, and Bug- — THE CRYSTAL EGG 133 gested observations to clear up difficult points. Noth- other, which seems altogether absurd ; or else that ing, indeed, could have been less visionary and mora it had some peculiar relation of sympathy with an- matter-of-fact. other and exactly similar crystal in this other The attention of Mr. Cave had been speedily di- world, so that what was seen in the interior of the rected to the bird-like creatures he had seen bo one in this world was, under suitable conditions, abundantly present in each of his earlier visions. visible to an observer in the corresponding crystal His first impression was soon corrected, and he in the other world; and vice versa. At present, in- considered for a time that they might represent a deed, we do not know of any way in which two diurnal species of bat. Then he thought, grotesquely crystals could so come en rapport, but nowadays we enough, that they might be cherubs. Their heads know enough to understand that the thing is not were round, and curiously human, and it was the altogether impossible. This view of the crystals as eyes of one of them that had so startled him on his en rapport was the supposition that occurred to Mr. second observation. They had broad, silvery wings, Wace, and to me at least it seems extremely plaus- not feathered, but glistening almost as brilliantly ible. . . as a new-killed fish and with the same subtle play And where was this other world? On this, also, of color, and these winga were not built on the the alert intelligence of Mr. Wace speedily threw plan of bird-wing or bat, Mr, Wace learned, but light. After sunset, the sky darkened rapidly—there supported by curved ribs radiating from the body. was a very brief twilight interval indeed—and the (A sort of butterfly wing with curved ribs seems stars shone out. They were recognizably the same best to express their appearance.) The body was as those we see, arranged in the same constellations. small, but fitted with two bunches of prehensile Mr. Cave recognized the Bear, the Pleiades, Aide- organs, like long tentacles, immediately under the baran, and Sirius; so that the other world must mouth. Incredible as it appeared to Mr. Wace, the be somewhere in the solar system, and, at the ut- persuasion at last became irresistible, that it was most only a few hundreds of millions of miles from these creatures who owned the great quasi-human our own. Following up this clue, Mr. Wace learned buildings and the magnificent garden that made the that the midnight sky was a darker blue even than broad valley so splendid. And Mr. Cave perceived our midwinter sky, and that the sun seemed a little that the buildings, with other peculiarities, had no smaller. And there were two small moons!—"like our door3, but that the great circular windows, which moon but smaller, and quite differently marked" opened freely, gave the creatures egress and en- one of which moved so rapidly that its motion was trance. They would alight upon their tentacles, fold clearly visible as one regarded it. These moons were their wings to a smallness almost rod-like, and hop never high in the sky, but vanished as they rose; into the interior. But among them was a multitude that is, every time they revolved they were eclipsed of smaller-winged creatures, like great dragon-flies because they were so near their primary planet. and moths and flying beetles, and across the green- And all this answers quite completely, although Mr. sward briiliantiy-colored gigantic ground-beetles Cave did not know it, to what must be the condi- crawled lazily to and fro. Moreover, on the cause- tion of things on Mars. ways and terraces, large-headed creatures similar to Indeed, it seems an exceedingly plausible con- the greater winged flies, but wingless, were visible, clusion that peering into this crystal, Mr. Cave did hopping busily upon their hand-like tangle of actually see the planet Mars and its inhabitants. tentacles. And, if that be the case, then the evening star that Allusion has already been made to the glittering shone so brilliantly in the sky of that distant vision, objects upon masts that stood upon the terrace of was neither more nor less than our own familiar the nearer building. It dawned upon Mr. Cave, after earth. regarding one of these masts very fixedly on one For a time the Martians—if they were Martians particularly vivid day, that the glittering object —do not seem to have known of Mr. Cave's inspec- there was a crystal exactly like that into which he tion. Once or twice one would come to peer, and peered. And a still more careful scrutiny convinced go away very shortly to some other mast, as though him that each mast in a vista of nearly twenty car- the vision was unsatisfactory. During this time ried a similar object- Mr. Cave was able to watch the proceedings of these Occasionally one of the large flying creatures winged people without being disturbed by their at- would flutter up to one, and, folding its wings and tentions, and, although his report is necessarily coiling a number of its tentacles about the mast, vague and fragmentary, it is nevertheless very sug- would regard the crystal fixedly for a space,—some- gestive. Imagine the impression of humanity a times for as long as fifteen minutes. And a series Martian observer would get who, after a difficult of observations, made at the suggestion of Mr. process of preparation and with considerable fa- Wace, convinced both watchers that, so far as this tigue to the eyes, was able to peer at London from visionary world was concerned, the crystal into the steeple of St. Martin's Church for stretches, at which they peered actually stood at the summit of longest, of four minutes at a time. Mr. Cave was the endmost mast on the terrace, and that on one unable to ascertain if the winged Martians were the occasion at least one of these inhabitants of this same as the Martians who hopped about the cause- other world had looked into Mr. Cave's face while ways and terraces, and if the latter could put on he was making these observations. wings at will. He several times saw certain clumsy So much for the essential facts of this very bipeds, dimly suggestive of apes, white and partially singular story. Unless we dismiss it all as the in- translucent, feeding among certain of the liehenous genious fabrication of Mr. Wace, we have to believe trees, and once some of these fled before one of one of two things ; either that Mr. Cave's crystal the hopping, round-headed Martians. The latter was in two worlds at once, and that, while it was caught one in its tentacles, and then the picture carried about in one, it remained stationary in the faded suddenly and left Mr. Cave most tantalizingly 134 AMAZING STORIES

in the dark. On another occasion a vast thing, that his own and the crystal egg was included in one of Mr. Cave thought at first was some gigantic insect, the Jots, Mr. Wace, after a few suitable consolatory appeared advancing along the causeway beside the observations, a little off-bandedly proffered perhaps, canal with extraordinary rapidity. As this drew hurried at once to Great Portland Street. But there nearer Mr. Cave perceived that it was a mechanism he learned that the crystal egg had already been sold of shining metals and of extraordinary complexity. to a tall, dark man in grey. And there the material And when he looked again, it had disappeared. faets in this curious, and to me at least very sug- After a time Mr. Wace aspired to attract the gestive, story come abruptly to and end. For a time attention of the Martians, and the next time that Mr. Wace remained in the shop, trying the dealer's the strange eyes of one of them appeared close to patience with hopeless questions, venting his own the crystal Mr. Cave cried out and sprang away, and exasperation. And at last, realizing abruptly that they immediately turned on the light and began to the whole thing had passed out of his hands, had gesticulate in a manner suggestive of signalling. vanished like a vision of the night, he returned to But when at last Mr. Cave examined the crystal his own rooms, a little astonished to find the notes again the Martian had departed. he had made still tangible and visible upon his un- These observations had progressed thus far in tidy table. early November, and then Mr. Cave, feeling that His annoyance and disappointment were naturally the suspicions of his family about the crystal were very great. He made a second call (equally ineffec- allayed, began to take it to and fro with him in tual) upon the Great Portland Street dealer, and order that, as occasion arose in the daytime or he resorted to advertisements in such periodicals as night, he might comfort himself with what wa3 were likely to come into the hands of a bric-a-brac fast becoming the most real thing in his existence. collector. He also wrote letters to The Daily In December Mr, Wace's work in connection with Chronicle and Nature, but both these periodicals, a forthcoming examination became heavy, the sit- suspecting a hoax, asked him to reconsider his tings were reluctantly suspended for a week, and action before they printed, and he was advised that for ten or eleven days—he is not quite sure which such a strange story, unfortunately so bare of sup- —he saw nothing of Cave. He then grew anxious porting evidence, might imperil his reputation as an to resume these investigations, and, the stress of investigator. Moreover, the calls of his proper work his seasonal labors being abated, he went down to were urgent. So that after a month or so, save for Seven Dials. At the corner he noticed a shutter an occasional reminder to certain dealers, he had before a bird fancier's window, and then another at reluctantly to abandon the quest for the crystal egg, a cobbler's. Mr. Cave's shop was closed. and from that day to this it remains undiscovered. He rapped and the door was opened by the step- Occasionally, however, he tells me, and I can quite son in black. He at once called Mrs. Cave, who was, believe him, he has bursts of zeal, in which he aban- Mr, Wace could not hut observe, in cheap but ample dons his more urgent occupation and resumes the widow's weeds of the most imposing pattern. With- search. out any very great surprise Mr. Wace learned that Whether or not it will remain lost for ever, with Cave was dead and already buried. She was in tears, the material and origin of it, are things equally and her voice was a little thick. She had just re- speculative at the present time. If the present pur- turned from Highgate. Her mind seemed occupied chaser is a collector, one would have expected the with her own prospects and the honorable details of enquiries of Mr. Wace to have reached him through the obsequies, but Mr. Wace was at last able to the dealers. He has been able to discover Mr. Cave's learn the particulars of Mr. Cave's death. He had clergyman and "Oriental"—no other than the Rev. been found dead in his shop in the early morning, James Parker and the young Prince of Eosso-Kuni the day after his last visit to Mr. Wace, and the in Java. I am obliged to them for certain par- crystal had been clasped in his stone-cold hands. ticulars. The ohject of the Prince was simply curi- His face was smiling, said Mrs. Cave, and the velvet osity—and extravagance. He was so eager to buy, cloth from the minerals lay on the floor at his feet. because Cave was so oddly reluctant to sell. It is He must have been dead five or six hours when he just possible that the buyer in the second instance was found. was simply a casual purchaser and not a collector at This came as a great shock to Wace, and he all, and the crystal egg, for all I know, may at the began to .reproach himself bitterly for having neg- present moment be within a mile of me, decorating lected the plain symptoms of the old man's ill-health. a drawing room or serving as a paper-weight—its But his chief thought was of the crystal. He ap- remarkable functions all unknown. Indeed, it is proached that topic in a gingerly manner, because partly with the idea of such a possibility that I have he knew Mrs. Cave's peculiarities. He was dumb- thrown this narrative into a form that will give it founded to learn that it was sold. a chance of being read by the ordinary consumer Mrs. Cave's first impulse, directly Cave'3 body of fiction. had been taken upstairs, had been to write to the My own ideas in the matter are practically identi- mad clergyman who had offered five pounds for cal with those of Mr. Wace. I believe the crystal the crystal, informing him of its recovery; but after on the mast in Mars and the crystal egg of Mr. a violent hunt in which her daughter joined her, Cave's to be in some physical, but at present quite they were convinced of the loss of his address. As inexplicable, way en rapport, and we both believed they were without the means required to mourn and further that the terrestrial crystal must have been bury Cave in the elaborate style the dignity of an —possibly at some remote date—sent hither from oid Seven Dials inhabitant demands, they had ap- that planet, in order to give the Martians a near pealed to a friendly fellow-tradesman in Great Port- view of our affairs. Possibly the fellows to the land Street. He had very kindly taken over a por- crystals in the other masts are also on our globe. tion of the stock at a valuation. The valuation was No theory of hallucination suffices for the facts. — 135 A Trip to the Center of the Earth By JULES VERNE {Continued)

"Doubtless—I am very uneasy on the point. We figure. The difference evidently depends on the con- have certainly not enough water to last us five ductibility of certain rocks. In the neighborhood of days." an extinct volcano, it has been remarked that the "Be quite easy on that matter," continued my elevation of temperature was only 1 degree in every uncle. "I answer for it we shall find plenty of water 125 feet. Let us, then, go upon this calculation- —in fact, far more than we shall want." which is most favorable—and calculate." "But when?" "Calculate away, my boy." "When we onee get through this crust of lava. "Nothing easier," said I, pulling out my note-book How can you expect springs to force their way and pencil. "Nine times one hundred and twenty- through these solid atone walls?" five feet, make a depth of eleven hundrd and twenty- "But what is there to prove that this concrete five feet." mass of lava does not extend to the center of the "Archimedes could not have spoken more geo- earth? I don't think we have as yet done much in metrically." a vertical way." "Well?" "What puts that into your head, my hoy?" asked "Well, according to my observations, we are at my uncle, mildly. least ten thousand feet below the level of the sea." it that if had descended "Well, appears to me we "Can it be possible?" the the sea should find very far below level of —we "Either ray calculation is correct, or there is no it rather hotter than we have." truth in figures." "According your system," said uncle; "but to my The calculations of the Professor were perfectly what does the thermometer say?" correct. We were already six thousand feet deeper "Scarcely 15 degrees by Reaumur, which is only down in the bowels of the earth than anyone had an increase of 9 degrees since our departure." ever been before. The lowest known depth to which "Well, and what conclusion does that bring you man had hitherto penetrated was in the mines of to?" inquired the Professor. Kitz-Eahl, on the Tyrol, and those of Wuttemburg "The deduction I draw from this is very simple. Bohemia. According to the most exact observations, the in should have been eighty- augmentation of the temperature of the interior of The temperature, which this only fifteen. This was a the earth is 1 degree for every hundred feet. But one, was in place certain local causes may considerably modify this matter for serious consideration.

(To be continued in our June issue)

To Our Readers

of our readers seem to have obtained the erroneous idea that AMAZING SOME print STORIES publishes only reprints, that is, stories that have appeared in manuscripts before. This is not the case. We have a great number of new on hand at the present time, and are buying quite a good many more, Today, more than at any other time, is the day of Scientifiction. Authors, great and small, are taking more and more to this type of fiction, and we are getting an excellent J supply of stories right along. Our only problem at the present time is to find room enough to publish all the good ones. If you or your friends know how to write a scientifiction story, the editors will be only too glad to look them over. At the present time, only rather short stories are re- quired, as we are well stocked up for some time to come with serials and long stories. have If, on the other hand, you have heard of a good scientifiction story that may appeared in print at some time or other, and which you think should be published in AMAZING STORIES, we shall be grateful to hear from you. We have an index of most scientific stories that have ever been published, but of course we can not know possession, will be more all of them. If you know of a good one, or have one in your we or Parties who have than glad to have you send it in, or put us in touch with the persons such stories. —EDITOR. #& INFINITE VISION c - ^ - T>if Charles C. Mnn

airships darted gracefully THE INFINITE VISION 137

TELL you, gentlemen, this is a pretty able at my hands and I will build you a telescope pass of affairs. Here all the other which will reveal the molecules of the rocks of the branches of science are open to practi- moon." cally an unlimited development, while Astronomy is nearly strapped because THE PREPARATION of one thing—that we have apparently reached the snow-capped limit of development of the telescope, as evidenced COLD moon was rising over the the Range. Upon one of the by these plates here. Something must be done. summits of Andes A highest peaks stood the gigantic Holton Ob- Can't any of you suggest anything?" and the favorable location of speaker paused and glared around the table. servatory, situated in the most the world for making observations. It was a meeting of the International Astronomi- On the steps of the huge concrete building two cal Society, gathered to discuss the results of the men stood in earnest conversation. One of them was trial of the giant forty foot mercury reflector tele- short and red-haired, with bright blue eyes that scope which had recently been completed in the snapped belligerently behind thick horn-rimmed great Holton Observatory, situated high up among spectacles. His companion, tall and dark, had about the South American Andes. him an indefinable atmosphere of quiet force and Evidently the results had been none too satis- dignity. factory, as evidenced by the grave and thoughtful For ten years these men had been engaged in expressions of the company. Holton, the chairman, intensive labor, the one preparing the huge struc- with his none too good ordinary humor, was fast ture for the reception of the delicate apparatus working up to a literal tirade of rage. which his companion was laboring to perfect in a "Possibly zee mercury reflector might be satis- great laboratory far off in the States. factorily eemproved," mildly suggested Flambeau, Six months ago he had arrived with it. From the noted Frenchman, in response to Holton 's heated small crew of demand. that time, with the assistance of a men, they had worked almost night and day install- That individual gave a snort of disgust, and his ing it. Only that day had they made the final ad- wiry red hair fairly bristled, as he spat out his justments which rendered it capable of the mighty withering reply. function it was to perform. "What, that d thing! Why that thing is per- For some moments the two stood, silently regard- fected as far as it lies within the power of mortal ing the great looming bulk which contained all their to do it. But look at this plate—magnified man raising his eyes, like hopes. Then the tall dark man, enough, but as far as detail goes ! Looks glanced at a great red star, which shone threaten- a striped pancake to me. "Vi brat ionl ess action, unblinkingly in the zenith. He spoke shortly eliminate vibration in ingly, H 1 You can't entirely his companion, and together the two entered the any machine. And look what microscopic ripples to structure. did in this case. Yes, I'd like to see you do any- emerged, their faces trans- thing with that crazy thing. And if you are fools Two hours later they dollars, figured with the light of great revelation. What enough to try it, after spending a million they saw that night only with these results, why I others have absolutely refuse to have ^g^^mmmm^mmm from that day until this. anything to do with it. I ~~ es of the WUi of quit." of the electron silence fol- An uneasy and quantum which iuroc crowned such scientists as Mil- Twenty-four hours lat- lowed this outburst. Not ligan and Bohr and Rutherford tail It refutations which er the same men entered things we are a man was present but will never die. But on the other end of the building again. This surrounded by the Stellar Universe where miles are too who realized that, in spite time, however, they were small to be taken into account, and where the light-year, of his eccentricities, which is an iiicosiccir^ibh- number of miles for the ordi- accompanied by ten oth- Henry F. Holton was the this .great nary mind, is the unit of distance, and into ers, the greatest scientists astronomical au- the observers the "Inlcnwiuma! greatest Stellar Universe of of three continents. Harl- thority of the day. Con- Astronomical Society" are slrivint/ to penetrate with their mounted on the great observatory on ton, the English physicist, sequently, no one had the gigantic telescofe the summit of the Amies Mountains. What did they was there; Coron, the temerity to oppose hi3 see? What secrets were revealed lei Ihem? We have American chemist; Flam- views. no more to say. Read the story. beau, the Frenchman, to- All through this stormy gether with the heads of session, a tali dark man of the four greatest observ- about thirty-five sat tiently listening to the discourse. Glenn Faxworthy stories of the world, and others. genius was, in all probability, the greatest scientific In the center of the room to which they were only was he present at the meeeting that day. Not conducted, stood the massive mercury reflector, the but to an even greater de- proficient in Astronomy, subject of the torrid discussion of ten years before. gree in Physics and Chemistry. He had disclosed But now it was strangely altered. No longer was it some remarkable things in his day, this quiet force- set immoyably upon giant pivots, pointing unalter- ful man. Curiously enough, however, he had chosen ably, to a single spot in the heavens. Now it was to keep them to himself, biding the day when their fitted into a ponderous equatorial mounting as deli- revelation might be doubly effective. cately balanced as a precious chronometer. And its Finally when the tenseness of the silence was shining surface no longer needed rapid rotation to becoming acute, he arose and addressed the meeting. form. The liquid "Gentlemen," he said, "put a million dollars avail- maintain its perfect parabolical 138 AMAZING STORIES

metal was now sec as rigid as steel. The master snapped two more of the tubes into the circuit. The hand of the physicist had given it eternal solidity. first image faded away, and was replaced by one, The party gazed in silence and wonder for a filling the entire screen. Then, as bulb after bulb moment at the collossal creation of the human mind, flashed in, the screen showed only portions of the and then turned and followed their guides up a long golden surface, and the image grew more and more flight of stairs to a large room under the center of detailed. Now only one great mountain was visible the huge dome. to the watchers ; now only a portion of that moun- It was a marvelous room, filled with an intricate tain; now only a half dozen rocks upon its surface, complication of ingenious apparatus. Upon one side and finally the surface of one rock. was banked series after series of vacuum tubes, Then the scientist, with an admonition to his mounted upon long panels of shining bakelite. An- companions, threw in a switch which brought the other wall was completely hidden by a huge switch- last bank of tubes simultaneously into light. board, studrled with a seemingly endless array of The former vision faded away, and in its place switches, control knobs, rheostats and levers. appeared a whirling mass of transparent spheres, In the center of the floor was mounted a shining visible only by the opalescent light reflected from silver screen about six feet square. Looking down their surfaces. upon it, the men could see the reflection of a strange piece of apparatus pointing directly down upon it, MOONS MOLECULES from the ceiling above. For some moments the party stood gazing in ENTLEMEN," said Faxworthy, his usu- mute wonderment at their surroundings. Then Pax- ally quiet voice trembling slightly with worthy, as you may have guessed the identity of the V^ emotion,e: "here you see the quartz mole- tall dark man, spoke to them in his quiet level voice. cules of one of the rocks on the surface of our satellite. I can only hope that the sight will repay THE TELESCOPE you for the money, which you so kindly provided." ENTLEMEN," he said, "here before you A subdued murmur of approbation was the only lies the results of ten years of intensive reply he received from the enchanted group of GI labor by Mr. Holton and myself—the scientists, as they rapturously watched the flitting product of the million dollars with which you so shapes before them. kindly provided me. Whether you have received an For some moments they stood, struck with the ample return on your investment, only you can wonder of it. Then Faxworthy abruptly pulled open judge to-night. However, I do not expect you to be the switches, and the image faded from the screen. disappointed." "Perhaps you would like a brief explanation of Then walking over to the board, he threw one of the apparatus, before we engage in the final test of the switches. Instantly the low hum of an electric the evening," he suggested, at the same time glanc- motor was heard from below. ing at his watch. "The power comes from a good-sized hydro-elec- There was a general nodding of heads in assent tric plant down on the other side of the mountain," and he began. "As you probably know, I have he explained. "It was Holton's idea. And," he added, been engaged in research work in Physics and smiling gently, "Holton was an invaluable factor in Chemistry, from the age of twenty. During that the construction of the mounting for the reflector time I have made some discoveries on these sub- and other requisite auxiliary apparatus. If we are jects, certain of which have proven very useful in successful tonight, he shares all honors." this present undertaking. Up to this time I have Then, turning to the board again, he moved a revealed their nature to no one except Holton, who lever which brought the aperture of the huge dome has been completely in my confidence. If you will around to the east. Another switch, and upon the excuse me, gentlemen, I will soon be back with you." very apex of the dome, mounted upon a small steel And he disappeared up a ladder, leading to a room tower, a weird piece of apparatus, much resembling higher up in the center of the dome. a huge X-ray tube sprang into life, unseen to the In a moment he returned, holding something watchers below. Then, guided by the master hand, tightly clasped in his hand. Opening it, he disclosed it swung upward until it pointed full upon the rising a small flat tube, filled with a reddish viscid liquid, moon. in the extremities of which were sealed several fine Faxworthy spoke again. "Gentlemen, I now have platinum wires. the reflector in the room below trained upon the "This tube, gentlemen," explained the scientist, moon. Watch the screen closely." "is the very heart of the apparatus you see about He threw another switch. A low hum came from you. Without it, all would be entirely useless. It con- above, which speedily grew in pitch to a piercing tains a quantity of a previously unknown element, whine, which soon became inaudible to the listeners which I call Lucium. It took me and my laboratory below. assistants twenty years to isolate the amount of He turned a control knob, and two of the vacuum Lucium you see in the tube. tubes lighted up. Simultaneously a strange beam of "The essential fact is that this element has the luminescence shot downward from the apparatus same properties as selenium, only in a million times above. more sensitive a degree. In absolute darkness it is Gazing down upon the screen the men saw an an absolute non-conductor of electricity, but let the object that riveted their immediate attention. tiniest ray of light strike it—though that ray came There, as though floating upon the silvery depths, across the universe—the substance immediately be- was a beautifully detailed image of the moon. comes proportionately conductive. Within the light- Rapturously the group looked upon it. Then proof room above, the light from the mercury re- Faxworthy, with a dexterous twist of his wrist, flector comes to a foeus upon this tube. I shall not ! !

THE INFINITE VISION 139 attempt to explain the process by which the electri- slowly the sections grew less in extent, as they grew cal impressions are generated, amplified, translated plainer and plainer in detail. Now the view was again into light, and finally projected to the screen from the apparent distance of a million miles, now below. It is far too intricate, and would require a thousand, now five hundred. hours to explain satisfactorily. Due to the Jack And slowly the delicate lines had grown in of time, neither shall I relate the circumstances of breadth, until only two of them, now broad ochre the discovery of this element further than to tell bands two feet wide, intersected in the middle of the you that I was curious as to the cause of a, bright screen, in the form of a large circular spot. The violet line, which occasionally flashed into the spec- center of this spot was thickly strewn with small trum of a rare ore that I was analyz.mg-" black dots, which glistened sharply as they reflected the sun's rays.

MARS AT FEET THEN drawing his watch from his pocket, he 10,000 continued impressively: "In twenty-five min- THEN without warning, Faxworthy snapped utes, the planet Mars will have reached its on all but two of the remaining tubes in the closest possible approach to the Earth. Then we bank. Instantly the image on the screen faded shall learn her secret. If you wili pardon me a mo- into obscurity, and in its place appeared a wondrous ment, I will return the lucium to its proper place." scene. There, as though from a ten thousand foot He was soon back, and even as he returned, the bird's-eye view, stretched a great city. sound of distant thunder became plainly audible in They were looking down upon great buildings a the clear mountain air. thousand feet in height, above which swarms of "One of the summer thunder storms common enormous airships darted gracefully through the among these mountains is coming up," he explained air. And the decks were covered with tiny figures simply. "I will adjust the reflector now, lest it give The last two bulbs flashed into life, and the view us trouble when it arrives." came to the apparent distance of fifty feet. The tiny "But, Monsieur, it will spoil the observation! figures were men. Perfect men of wonderful Even when it recedes, zee air currents will be physique, with finely chiseled faces. They were clad atrocious !" cried Flambeau in the first words he had in a raiment resembling that in which Caesar's spoken that night. legion were dressed centuries ago. There were wom- Faxworthy made no verbal reply, but motioned en also, all of glorious form and feature, robed in them out upon a small balcony on the east wall of exquisitely colored gowns, which gleamed in the the structure. He pointed his finger to the moon, sunlight with a myriad opalescent tints. which was being slowly obscured. Following his The last two tubes again faded into darkness, and motion, the others gazed in the same direction. the view receded to the original ten-thousand foot What they saw was a ghostly cylinder of faint scene. luminescence issuing from the small tower on the With an almost imperceptible movement of his roof, and reaching outward into space as far as hand upon a lever, he brought the landscape flash- the eye could see ings across the screen in a glorious panorama. "The dispelling ray," briefly explained their And while they viewed the surface of the dying guide. "The ether waves of the fortieth octave planet from pole to pole, the storm that had been which have the property of expelling all matter rising came up and settled over the top of the from their path. The range of this ray in the mountain. Lightnings flashed, and thunder shook atmosphere is about six hundred miles, and as long the observatory, but so engrossed were they in the as the telescope aligns in its path, it effectually wondrous scene before them, and so protected from eliminates all interference from atmospheric or interruption by the silent, ghastly ray without, that meteorologic conditions." they were completely oblivious to the disturbance. The wondering silence that followed was broken Now a vast, red, sandy desert was sweeping only by a stifled "Mon Dieu!" from Flambeau. That across the screen, now a waterway, now another city one man could have produced so many wonders (always situated at the intersection of two canals), seemed almost incredible to the group of dis- and so from the distance of thirty-three millions of tinguished scientists. miles, they viewed the surface of the planet from The silence was not broken, even as their guide ice clad north to ice clad south. Suddenly the lofty led them back to the control room. Swiftly he summit of a great mountain capped with an enor- brought the colossal telescope to the zenith, where mous black blotch swept across their vision. the great red star still steadily gleamed. Synchroni- With skillful hand, Faxworthy brought the image cally the unearthly band of light on the dome swung back to the center of the screen. The black blotch upward until it came to rest in the same direction. was a huge building completely covering the top Again the first two vacuum tubes flashed into of the mountain, and towering five hundred feet light ; again that strange beam of luminescence shot into the air—an almost exact replica of the building down from the ceiling, and there came into being in which they stood. And from its top an enormous upon the screen the image'of a great red star, mag- ray of unearthly bi-m-humceiice shot sharply out into nified to the diameter of a baseball. Two more of space! Again the last two bulbs flashed into light, the tubes, and the image doubled in size. Now a and they looked down into the polished bowl of an complicated network of delicate lines could be dis- enormous concave mirror two hundred feet in cerned upon its dull crimson surface. diameter. Two at a time, the vacuum tubes were switched "You see," said the scientists significantly, "un- into the circuit, and ever the image increased in seen eyes are ever watching us from space, and they size and detail. Soon it covered the entire screen. have been doing so for countless ages." Now only sections of the surface were visible, and {Continued on page 147) ?Jk MAN from theATOM 1$if~ g. 'Peyton ChTertenbaker

(.Sequel)

her for safely, and I smiled.

What Went Before

£T~\ROFESSOR MARTYN was an inventor of stricken and decides to press the "stop" button. i~^genius, andKirby—one of the very few friends The velocity of his motion is so great that he travels ~*~ he had—was always a willing test object for for hundreds of miles more before he can stop. many of his inventions. Somewhat even to his own Then he suddenly finds himself coming up out of surprise, Professor Martyn invents a machine water—floating. lie swims ashore, but he is so ex- •whereby anyone can at will, cither increase or di- hausted, he falls right off to sleep. When he awakes, minish in size, and Kirby agrees—with foreboding he gets into a state of utter despair, for instead of in his heart—to test the machine. It is put into op- being on the Earth, he finds himself on some un- eration by merely pressing the middle button on known planet. He rages and fumes around for some this little machine, which is attached with straps, time and finally decides to decrease to a size small over his chest. He is fitted with an elastic suit, enough to enable him. to go back to earth and forth- specially made for the purpose of keeping out in- with sets out to find the same nebula through -which tense cold or heat and retaining an even degree of he originally left the Earth. He cannot find it and temperature. He begins to increase in size and soon does not reach the Earth, but lands instead on a is so large that he just naturally slips away from strange planet, with strange inhabitants, so far ad- the Earth and goes off into ultra-planetary space. vanced in intellect that he feels like a savage After the first rush of excitement, Kirby becomes among them. He does not understand their lan- alarmed about it all and decides to come back to guage and cannot understand their customs. He is Earth. He presses the right button and immediately there alone in utter desolation and despair, ever begins to diminish in size. But he has traveled so pining for those he left behind, whom he can never fast and is so far away that he becomes panic- hope to see again.

. 140 THE MAN FROM THE ATOM 141 PART TWO: THE RETURN surface, A few minutes later I began to feel for the first time since departure that my own size NEVER hoped—never dreamed, when I my returning to me, the size that God intended I wrote the tale you have read, that I was then turned Martyn's should ever see the earth again. Who should have. It was that I switch, would in the universe could have hoped against "gravity" rather undecided what happen, and caring very little, I suppose. Nothing all the knowledge of insuperable fate did happen. which had come to me? Who could hope to over- closer come Time and Space, to recapture that which was The clouds came and closer toward my face, mounting up over my body and growing each gone forever? Yet it is just this that I have done moment more billowy and more illimitable. In a —or something very like it. And it is a story a thousand times more fantastic, more impossible, little while they had enveloped my face, and a few than the story of my journey. And like that it is minutes later they were above me. true. It is now, I know, the moment when a writer of romances would introduce great horrible When I last wrote, I was living in a state of some awful quiescence upon a planet of the star Delni— bird that fought him in the air, or two armies of air-men fought about him. Unfortunately I do not know yet what it would be called here, rival who you will, nothing of that sort hap- or whether it is even existent now for us. Perhaps or fortunately, as think should have I exaggerated a little my position, but that was pened to me; and, if it had, I I interested. before I had met Vinda. Vinda—shall I ever see been too sleepy to be Instead, I looked her again? I leave to-morrow—but will she be down upon long, rolling plains of golden grain. there? There were no forests, or even trees, that I could inches of I saw little enough of that world, and what little see. The ocean came to within a few my tiny I did see I shall not attempt to describe here, for it feet, and far away across it, I caught a bright will all go into the report I am drawing up, with glitter that might have been a city. There seemed Martyn's aid, for a scientific magazine. But when to be no mountains, only a few low hills. The sun- I pressed the bottom button again, and the stars light very seldom penetrated through the clouds began to grow large, the planets to become visible in all its opulent splendor, but the world was no as they circled in their paths, I had no desire less bright for that, since its sun was very huge. sort of except to sleep. With a. reckless abandon that gave There seemed to be a clear, diffused, bluish no thought for the consequences, I came close to light over the face of the planet. one of the planets and waited for it to grow larger. I need not detail all my thoughts and emotions as How can I describe the mad humor of my situation, I grew smaller, coming closer and closer to the lying there in space with a world, a living world, ground. They were confused, meaningless feelings, revolving a few inches from my chest? I could look and I have no memory of them except as a mood down over it as you would half way between a dull down model or mKsa^^mBmmmm^m sorrow for the loss of my globe of the world. I felt true earth and a dull won- instalment we the hero a prisoner on the /N this find der at the exotic beauty a wild desire to put my unknown planet, the inhabitants of which, are very finger into its great seas, much advanced and far superior to Ike people of the of this earth I had come and I could imagine to Earth—in intellect and science. His life among these peo- upon. In a little while, myself the consternation ple is not a happy one. Through the interception of a however, I had shut off beautiful young girl, some of the best scientists there they would feel if there the machine and was de- — evolve method whereby our hero can return to earth. a creasing more gently inhabitants . in were — when They figure on the basis of Einstein's theory of the curva- size. Once I turned it on the awful tempest and the ture of time—if one goes on far enough, he will eventually tidal waves came to them. return to -where he storied from—or in other words "the again for a moment, find- world having lived and died will the again and die again." It was just such a desire ing that I had miscalcu- It lakes mil/ions of years to complete a cycle, but because as we feel sometimes in lated, but I quickly turned of the many timet increased speed will: which our hern it off. During seemed church, to shout a heresy travels, because of his enormous siec, they are able to what or to throw something at figure his return to a time very nearly corresponding the to me hours, I shrank the priest, not because we year in which he left the Earth. Rend this imaginative little by little, with in- tunc he succeeds, and how he likes the Earth are heretics or because we sequel and see creasing slowness, until I after he comes back. dislike the priest, but for stood only a little taller some inexplicable reason W^^^^^^^^^^^^M M^^^^^^^—^^B than the grain of the long —an impulse. Fortunate- fields. There was nothing ly, I did not surrender to that impulse. But I about me by which I could gauge my desired laughed a great hysterical laugh, and it must have height, so I deeided to let myself remain as I was heen like the laughter of a god reverberating until I had slept. Without any thought for pos- through the universe, dying thinly away in unimag- sible differences in the atmospheres of this world inable reaches of the distance. and that of my own to which I had become ac- AH this time the planet was growing bigger. It customed, I feverishly pulled off my globular helmet was not long before I was able, with the most fas- and my suit. I was greeted with a great breath of cinating acrobatic antics, to propel myself far cool air from the sea, and I stood for many minutes enough away to place my feet almost upon it. Still bathing in its fresh purity. Then, with a sigh, I it grew—or should I drop this playing with appear- sank down into the soft grain, and, watching the ances, and say that I shrank? In any case, its tall stalks rippling above me in the wind, I fell heavily veiled face with clouds became vaster and more vast, until it must have been about my own When I awoke, it was dark. There were no stars height in diameter. Then I let my feet push through to be seen and no moon, but there was a faint the clouds until they were resting lightly upon the radiance, a phosphorescence, upon the grain in 142 AMAZING STORIES

which I lay. I did not rise for a long while, for away from me, he allowed me to come up to the T was thinking hopelessly of the futility of my life plane. I was signalled to enter it. There was no with my world gone, of the new life I should have cock-pit, no enclosure. It consisted only of a plat- to build up here, learning everything all over again form, some five feet wide and ten feet long, with as though I were a baby. After a while, knowing a rail of thin metal about it. A small metal chair the madness such thoughts as these might lead me of severe design was affixed to the forward end, be- to, I tried to dismiss them, and I stood up. I was hind the controls. amazed at first to discover the grain about a foot I mounted the platform and sat down, at hi3 above my head now, for it had been at least two command, in one corner. Still holding the tiny in- feet below my head when I bad gone to sleep. Surely strument toward my chest, he then secured one of it had not grown a yard during the night? I soon my wrists and one ankle to a couple of metal cuffs, realized, however, that it was I who had grown a evidently for that purpose, upon the rail. He flung little smaller, as the machine continued to move the suit, after a contemptuous examination, into with increasing slowness. I now removed the tiny the corner beside him. I grinned at him several instrument, which I had kept on after taking off times during these operations, in order to show the suit, lest it should come to harm. that my intentions were of the best. But he only I was puzzled to know how I might reach civiliza- stared at me with an expressionless face and turned tion, if there was civilization. But, remembering away to the controls. If any shadow of expression the sea, I set off in the direction I thought it lay, was in his eyes, I fancied it was disgust. carrying the suit and the machine, both extra- A moment later he rose swiftly from the beach ordinarily light. I walked for a large part of the and turned toward the City, leaving me to my own night. I did not realize just how far the ocean might despondent reveries as we flew over the water with be, since I remembered it as no more than a few amazing swiftness. He must have given some signal inches from my huge foot. I was fairly certain to the other planes by wireless, for a short while after walking many miles that I must have taken later I saw them all falling in behind, far back. the wrong direction. But no. A little while before It was then that I suspected, for the first time, that the dawn I heard the faint sound of its breakers, they might all have been searching for me. I had and I soon was able to see it from the top of a hill. forgotten how conspicuous my giant body would When I reached the beach, I once more perceived have looked to them, even from a distance, if any- the light of the city, assuming that it was a city, one chanced to observe it. across the water. Of course, I could not see the flash- At the risk of omitting details whieh the reader ing structures themselves, hut an intense golden would find very interesting, I am going to say noth- radiance spread itself over the sky, as though it ing of the City aa yet. I saw too little of it to draw might really have been the moon rising. any accurate conclusions, and I have very little I walked along the beach until dawn, and then more than a vague impression of tall buildings, I went on for a large part of the morning, trying flashing in the sunlight, mile after mile, extending to reach a point upon the shore that would be far out over the horizon; buildings of immense directly opposite the City. I should imagine it height, standing each many hundreds of yards was a few hours before noon when the flying ma- apart, with parks between. It was all roofed over chines appeared. They came out of the east, from and kept apparently at a uniform heat, while I sus- the direction of the City, flying very low. They pect that in some way the clouds above were arti- flew together, several hundred of them I should ficially dispelled to permit the huge sun to be seen. imagine, until they reached a point on the shore We entered through great gates in the glass dome, probably ten miles below me. Then they seemed to and joined a throng of other planes, mostly very disperse, some into the country, a few at intervals small ones, and in a few minutes we had landed along the beach. It was not long before one of them on the roof of a building near the limits of the came shooting up toward me at a speed enormous City. beyond my imagination. I began to wave my arms A number of the tall men then gathered about wildly, and apparently I was seen, for the plane im- us. They were all clean shaven and they were mediately decreased its speed. practically without hair. They had an air of age A few minutes later, after passing perhaps a and wisdom, although their faces, like that of the mile beyond me, the plane turned and glided along flyer, were smooth, delicate, and impassive. I was the beach until it stopped a hundred yards or so released, still under the scrutiny of the little away. It was a small machine of a most curious weapon, and conveyed down, through elevators and and delicate design, but it did not differ very radi- moving passages, to a cell of white metal contain- cally from those I had 3een on the earth. ing a low bed, some small chairs, a table, and other A man leaped out and came toward me. He, too, mere necessities. Food was put before me, and was very like myself, but about a, foot taller, and then I was left alone. I never left that cell there- with an extremely high forehead. His features were after until the moment of my final departure from delicate, his build very slight but quite graceful. the planet. He was unclothed, except for a belt of metal and The days I spent in there were a long and several metal ornaments upon his arms and legs. monotonous succession of lonely hours and tedious He carried a small, straight instrument of metal examinations. On the day that I arrived, after I in his hand, apparently a weapon, which was turned had eaten my meal, two of the men to whose care upon me. I raised my arms, and cried "Wait!" or I was committed came with a guard to inspect me. something equally absurd, which, naturally, he could They said nothing during the whole time they were not understand. He did not trouble to reply, realiz- there. I was motioned to explain myself. Half in- ing, I suppose, that our languages were different. credulously, I began to talk, and they nodded as Instead, he motioned me to approach, and, backing though they understood—I cannot say how; I never :

THE MAN FROM THE ATOM 143 learned in what fashion they interpreted my speech. "You—are—Kirby?" Her accent—how could I I told of my journey and of its consequences. I told reproduce the sweetness of that clear accent, so about my world. At intervals they nodded, I sup- exotic, so perfectly in keeping with the delicacy of pose to assure me that they were listening. After her own appearance'? For a long time I could say awhile I was given writing materials. I wrote an nothing, just stare at her open-mouthed, amazed, appeal to them to explain their world to me, so delighted. Then I managed to stutter some foolish that I might take up the frayed ends of my life reply ." upon it. But always they only nodded at me, and "Kirby? Yes. . . . yes, I am Kirby. Yea. . at last they departed, taking with them the words And she smiled again, and I smiled, unaware of I had written. A little while later, several guards the scornful gleam in the eyes of the men. She were sent to my ceii. They handled me as though I smiled even more brightly when she saw my own were an animal, washing me with a peculiar sort grin. Indeed, I fancy she was about to laugh, laugh of water, cutting my hair, shaving my beard. When at me, but perhaps my very simplicity made her I was apparently clean enough for their sensibilities, calm again. For—do you see?—I did not learn for I was left alone again. a long time that only women laughed and played, This went on for days and days. Sometimes the and amused themselves with artistic pursuits on same two men who had first interviewed me came that planet. They did, indeed, scorn me, those men, again. Sometimes there were other visitors. Every when they saw me laughing, as we would scorn a day I was forced to submit to the attendance of the man who talked with a piping voice and giggled and guards, like any caged beast. I was never spoken stepped mincingly about. But I like to think that to. All day long, when I was alone, I would wander there was something in me more appealing to Vinda restlessly about, thinking over and over again the 'than the impassive manhood of those scientists. old, terrible thoughts of what I had seen and lost Perhaps, after all, it is only that I was unique. But and would not know. I should have gone mad, I she did like me—I am certain of it now. think, had they not acceded finally to my request We said very little that time. She was reserved, for writing materials—the only sign they ever gave formal, I was too confused to speak coherently. me that I was understood. I might have given way After a while she retired, and it seemed to me to some murderous fit of rage against them, had that my cell was ten thousand times as bare and those guards not always been there, with their tiny, cold and hard as it had been before. threatening weapons. The next time she came alone, except for a single But I was at least a little consoled with the writ- guard. She had appealed to her father, the King, ing materials. Thereafter I was able to spend hours telling him how harmless I was and how different and hours setting down the details of my adventure, from the men of that planet, and that I should not recording all my thoughts and desires. I have given be judged by their standards. She had persuaded here only a small portion of all that I wrote. I think him, so she came alone, with writing materials and it must have been this relief in writing that kept me a small machine which recorded sound and vision, sane. I had never before realized so fully the vast and which took the place of books. She had decided wonder of the alphabet, of this thing we call writ- to learn my language, knowing that hers was in- ing. By pouring out all my heart into words, by comprehensible to me, since it depended on a sense expressing the things that hung so oppressively which is dormant or inexistent in us, something re- over my heart, I was able to make them a little lated, perhaps, to the vague thing we call mental lighter, and, perhaps, a little heroic, a little flatter- telepathy. ing and epic. Oh, but I spent endless days of wonder and en- But this, thank God, did not go on forever. For chantment there with Vinda! Never once was I one day Vinda came. She said afterward that it permitted to leave my cell, but T was content now, had been only curiosity which led her to my cell. for it seemed that she brought all the beauty of the Everybody in the City, everybody in that world, universe in with her, the sunshine, the gold and seems to have been wildly curious to see the strange the green of the fields, the blue of the sea—every- creature from the distant star. But Vinda was thing. God knows how I ever failed to realize why the daughter of the King of the planet, whose those days were so beautiful, but I did not. Not family, so far as I could gather, retained its su- until I was gone, and it was too late. premacy only so long as it retained its great in- It was not long before we could converse together, tellectual power. Vinda's father, the King, was a for she had what seemed to me a marvellous mind, physicist. although, apparently, the minds of women were not Vinda came in state, with a guard of six men very highly esteemed in that world. She told me, and an escort of six scientists. I will not say that quite simply, that women had never evolved there ^ I loved her at first sight. I was, indeed, amazed beyond a certain state of civilization, while men by her great beauty and the mobility of her fea- had gone on thousands of years ahead. Women, it tures, so fine a contrast with the impassivity of seemed, were kept for the sort of intellectual labour the men. She was not very tall either, just about which corresponds to the manual labour of the my own height, and the most graceful woman I savage women. The men were creators and teach- have ever known. She smiled at me with a some- ers. They discovered, invented, reproduced, per- fected endless marvellous things. on the what aloof interest, and then—then she spoke ! The Women, first sounds of human speech I had heard. on the other hand, understood them only in the detailed planet. And she spoke English! Only a few broken way of those who tend them, watch over them, care words, it is true. But I found afterward that she for them. t had learned them, just for the amusement of it, But I had to confess to her that my own intellect from the reports of the scientists who examined me. probably was not so advanced as hers. And it is She said: this, it seems, that made our companionship so de- —

144 AMAZING STORIES lightful. Women to those scientists were merely a course of history remains the same. That is the LioItJgical fact.. Except in rare cases, there was no best I can do for an explanation." companionship. With us it was different, for men- "Vinda! You mean that some day there will be tally we were nearly equal, and that seemed to an earth like mine again?" revive in her an instinct long dead on that planet "Yes, Kirby." She always called me Kirby. the instinct that I now dare to say was love. Not "And the same people! Martyn, and the rest?" biology, but love. "That is what they say." I leaped up, and began So we were daily together for a long time. Each to walk wildly about. To return! To see Martyn moment of our conversation was wonderful to us again, and the rest! And then a thought came to both, for it revealed to each of us the exotic life of me. I grinned bitterly. a planet unknown to us. I remember very little of "But that will be millions of years away," I said, what she told me about that planet—it seems that "and I shall be dead." She looked at me for a long I can remember nothing but Vinda herself, her low while, and then she answered: voice with its delicious accent, her eyes, her hair "No, Kirby. You passed millions of years in a everything that a iover always remembers. few instants during your great journey. Do you But I had not forgotten my longing for the earth. not see that you can grow large again and that the At first I was able to lose myself in the wonderful millions of years will flash by as swiftly?" things she told me of her planet. But later, when "By Jove—yes!" I shouted. I talked of my own world, I became homesick and "But you would be leaving us very soon?" she hopeless. She seemed to grow more thoughtful as said. I spoke, but at the time I did not think it was more "If that is true!" I cried. "Why, I would leave !" than an endeavour to form mental pictures of the tomorrow things I related. One day, however, when we had She turned away, and in a moment answered, talked for a long time of the earth, a silence fol- "Not to-morrow, perhaps, but in a few weeks." And, lowed whieh lasted for many minutes. At last suddenly, she went away. she said: I did not sleep that night with the wonder of this truly unbelievable thing. All night, all the "If you were able, you would return to your next morning, I paced excitedly about my room, earth?" I raised my arms despairingly. waiting for her return. When she did arrive, I "God, yes!" I cried, "but the desire is all I have. begged her for more details. No man can conquer time." She was very thought- "What can I tell you," she said, "who know so ful for a moment. little myself? I have spoken with my uncle. He "It has been done," she replied after a while. could not tell me much that I understood. There is "But Vinda, one cannot re-capture what is gone some great secret underlying it, some great ex- and past!" planation, which is always just a few steps beyond "No," she agreed, "but one can do almost that. my grasp. I seem to see for an instant what it I do not know—but my uncle has a secret—" is—then suddenly it is gone. He said, for instance, What, Vinda! Tell what!" "A secret! me that over and above the cycles of time, is a great

. ." She "I must teJI you first of a theory. . general progression which makes the civilizations of pondered while I waited breathlessly, even forget- the universe always just a little further advanced for ting her beauty as I watched her face some in each successive cycle before they decline again. sign of the thing she was about to tell me. He described that as a sort of fifth dimension in "You have spoken," she said, "of a man called time, comparable he said, to the path of the sun Einstein on your earth, and of other men who be- which carries the planets always just a little farther lieve that time is a fourth dimension and that it is in space, although each year they return to their curved. Some of them, you say, believe that space starting point in reference to the sun. It is im- is so curved that, if one goes sufficiently far, he mensely confusing." will return to the point from which he started. "In other words, if I returned to the earth, I Years ago we made discoveries on this planet about should find it a little further advanced than when the curvature of time. And our evidence has taught I left it?" us that time goes in circles, in cycles. They say "Somewhat like that. Except that, if you re- that, if one were to live forever, he, would find turned to your year 1937, you would find your> eventually the whole of history repeating itself." self in an era comparable to the year 1967, let ?" "You mean— us say, on the earth of the cycle you had left. In

- "That a time comes when your world or this order to find your friend, Martyn, it would be neces- world, after having lived and died, will live again sary to go back to an earlier year which we cannot and again die." know, which you would, therefore, have to estimate "With the same history, the same civilizations?" yourself." "Yes. For they teach us that there is a destiny "But," I said, "there are things it is difficult to in the life of all things, that the growth of the understand. Is it true, for instance, that there will universe follows definite courses in which every be another incarnation of my body which will leave fact, every incident, i3 inseparably woven into a the earth at the same time I am returning?" texture which embraces the whole, and that every "It would seem so. And that incarnation would action of man or nature (and man is part of nature) return in the cycle following your return." all is inevitable because it grows out of natural forces. "How complicated it is!" under- The secret of all this we women have never learned: "That is only because we are not able to it is the study of the scientists. But the whole his- stand it as the scientists do. They speak, for in- tory of the universe is rigidly fore-ordained, and stance, of the dimension of size. It seems that there grasp men- so, when time returns to its starting point, the is a direction, which we cannot quite : — THE MAN FROM THE ATOM 145 tally any more than we can grasp time aa a direc- to spend in my various sizes, before I could return tion, which extends from the small to the great. again to the world in its next cycle, unimaginable That 18 to say, when you grow you are really mov- millions of eons in the future. ing in a new dimension which is linked, how I do When the day came on which all these calcula- not comprehend, with the dimension of time. The tions were finished, Vinda brought me my suit, difference hetween this universe and the universe which had been preserved, and the machine. She of .which it is a part, an atom, is a difference in brought also a chronometer which, she said, would space through another dimension—similar to the record, upon its numerous dials, the passage of time difference in miles or light-years between our sun in the universe I was leaving, regardless of the and another sun of our universe." various sizes 1 might assume. It had been connected "But really, that is too obscure for me." by those marvellous men in some fashion to the "For me, too," she acknowledged. "But our machine itself, so that the growth of the machine " scientists understand." We were silent for a long aeted upon the chronometer in such fashion that it while, she dreaming some private dream of her would record a corresponding swiftness in the pas- own, I pondering these vast conceptions that were sage of time. One dial recorded years. When the beyond my grasp. I broke the silence first needle reached a certain swiftness of revolution on "In all theories of time as a dimension, this point the dial, it ceased, and the next highest dial, in has always raised itself in my mind. If I were to thousands of years, continued the record alone, hav- return during some crisis in history and foretell ing followed the dial of the years so long as it re- the mistake that would be made, could that mis- volved. In turn this dial ceased to record, while take be rectified, changing the whole course of his- the millions of years were registered, and so on tory?" the whole process being reversed as my size de- "That," she answered, "would come under the creased, each dial taking upon the record at the head of the progress which civilization makes from correct point. cycle to cycle, I think. You must remember that The precise point when I must stop was recorded all these things are inevitable.^ If it were your on the various dials, and the precise point when I destiny to return at some earlier point in your must stop my growth and shrink again was indi- world's history, it would be the result of natural cated on the highest dial. It was impossible that laws, and any changes you might effect in history I could fail, if t followed my directions explicitly. would also be inevitable." Again we were silent. When all was ready, an escort of two guards was At last I roused myself from my reveries. given me, and Vinda came with me, very impassive, "All this," I said, "seems very dim and unreal very silent. We went from my cell up through the to me yet. I suppose that is natural. But we must building to the roof, and entered the plane which begin to act- Could your scientists help me in the awaited us. This time I would not be chained to problem of finding the point in history where my the rail, but I would stand beside it with Vinda. world will be again as I left it?" She looked at me We passed out through the City precisely as we very steadily for a moment. had come in, reached the sea, and headed across it "You are sure you wish to go?" she said. I smiled. toward the isolated spot where I had first appeared. alone in the stern of the plat- "I cannot imagine wishing not to," I said. . . . Vinda and I stood Oh, fool that I was! If I had only known how much form, looking out over the retreating water and the

I should some day wish to return to her. . . . City. "Then," she answered, averting her eyes, "I think "Do you not think," she said, "that you will be I can help you. You kept records of the time you disappointed when you return? Will you not find spent in your journey?" it very ironic to take up a hum-drum life after all "As well as I could," I replied. these exotic adventures?" "Can you draw a diagram of the stars as they "No doubt I shall," I answered, for, now that I looked from your earth when you left?" was on my way back, I could admit many things "I am sure of it," I assured her. "but there will be the compensations of friend- "Then I think it can he done." ship and other things. And, anyhow, it is my And, for the rest of that day I sat with her, destiny." She sighed.

. there, perhaps, drawing my maps of the sky from memory, setting "Yes. . it is your destiny. Is someone whom you love and who calls you back to . down extracts from my tale of the journey. When she left, she had all the information which she her?" I laughed lightly. thought would be required. "By no means!" I said. "I am immune. I have Again I shall pass over the next few weeks with never fallen in love." For one lies, many times, a few words. During that time she came each day without knowing it. with news of the progress of her efforts. Once or "You are. very unfortunate," she said, "or per- twice she required new information of me. She haps very fortunate ; it is hard to say." had persuaded her uncle to make the calculations "Are you, then, in love?" I asked her. She looked for me in his moments of relaxation (what an out over the sea, her face turned away. awful thought that conjured in my mind of the in- "Yes," she replied simply. tellectual labour of these men!) Apparently the "Then I wish you the greatest success," I said man, by figuring the length of time I had been formally. And—do you know?—I was suddenly a away and the position of my sun in space, could little piqued, without at all knowing why. It may intellectual women, but identify it among the amazing records he possessed be that men are more than terrible of all the stars in our universe, past, present, or it ia certain that they are sometimes more future—things inconceivable to me. Having identi- fools. cool, fied my world, he could then figure just the size I So we went rushing on through the air, should have t» become and the time I should have fragrant, quiet. How can I ever have wished to — !

146 AMAZING STORIES leave that world? Perhaps, if I had spent all those tain Consul, who fed and clothed me and bought me weeks in the open air and with Vinda, perhaps my passage, I should no doubt be wandering around but there is no perhaps. I can only know facts. the Sahara yet, carrying on my back a machine And it is a fact that I left her, and that I loved with which one can overcome time and 3ize and her—love her yet. space We came to the fields upon which I had landed. On the day that I arrived in New York, I went There I put on my suit with feverish haste, as at once to Martyn's laboratory, I was amazed to though afraid lest it melt away under my hands. I find it deserted. I was absolutely at a loss, for his adjusted the machine and the chronometer upon it name was not in the telephone directory. In despera- with Vinda's aid, and then, isolated in a profound tion, I called at the office of a newspaper. .You will silence within my glass globe, I stood waiting for all recall what happened to Martyn, of course, but the hour at which I must begin my journey. It to me it was a most horrible and disgusting mis- seemed to me that endless hours passed while I take—imprisoned for manslaughter. They had ac- stood there in keen impatience, with the two curious cused him of murdering me. The poor man had guards watching me. At the last quarter-hour, realized, when I failed to return, the hideous mis- Vinda suddenly turned and went behind the ma- take he made in forgetting that size would affect chine, where I could not see her. But I was too the relative length of time. He had explained this, busily watching the face of my wrist-watch to see explained the whole story, and it caused a terrible her in any case. sensation. It seems that laws were enacted all over At last the moment came. I smiled a Homeric the country for the "restraint" of scientists, who smile, and waved my hand at the two guards as I were said to constitute "the greatest menace to our pressed the top button, while they gave me one last country since the civil war." stolid glance and hurried to the machine. I began, Needless to say, my re-appearance has created a with the usual dizziness, to grow, with closed eyes far more terrible sensation. This time, however, it as the tingling electric flash shot through my veins. is hoped that it wili take the form of a re-action When, a moment later, these sensations had passed in favour of the scientists. My dramatic clearing of away, and I opened my eyes, I had already grown Martyn's name from any suggestion of blame has to thirty feet or so. As I looked down, I saw Vinda fired the imagination—such as it is—of the people. struggling between the two guards who evidently Of course I must remember, difficult aa it is some- held her back from a dangerous proximity to my times, that the Kirby who left the world of this swiftly enlarging feet. I wondered what she wanted, cycle is not the Kirby who has returned. I have to and I felt a sudden regret that I had not been able think of another person, my double in appearance, to tell her good-bye. I was half inclined to stop life, and name, who is now wandering about the my growth for a few minutes, but, instead, I knelt universe, watching with amazement the strange down far enough away from her for safety, and formations of the stars, crashing about that huge I smiled, waving my arm like some huge, clumsy, beach far up there in the illimitable void, or seeing ridiculous giant. She stiffened and ceased her with a sudden rush of despair all the terribly dis- struggles. For a moment she stared at me with an tinct details of his fate. Yes, I can sympathize expression nearer anger, I thought, than anything with that brother of mine. else. Then, suddenly, she turned and walked swiftly The world has changed in many details since I to the machine, followed by her guards, while I knew it in the last cycle. For instance, the America climbed unsteadily back upon my feet again—al- I knew was a Republic still, whereas now, you know ready nearly eighty feet high. A moment later the that it is the Monarchy which was declared by Theo- plane rose from the ground and darted away toward dore Roosevelt during the Great War of 1812, and the sea. For a long time I followed its flight, until which is now ruled by the Emporer Theodore II, In I had pushed up through the clouds, and lost it. spite of this and many other things, however, the It certainly is not necessary to detail my return, world is not materially different from the world I for, in every respect, it was like the first journey. left. Those who are interested in the changes will For a long, impatient, monotonous time, I grew do well to read the book which I am preparing, in larger and larger. Fortunately, it was not neces- collaboration with Martyn, who at last has come into sary to go beyond the limits of the nuclei, as by now his own, on the journey which I have recounted I wa3 determined to call them. There, at a certain only generally here. time, I pressed the middle button and stopped, then To-morrow morning I leave this earth, perhaps I pushed the bottom button, and the last stage of for the last time. You, who have read this at- my return was under way. tentively, must realize by now the love which, all I came back to the earth without accident. It unsuspectingly, I felt for Vinda. After a few months was the twenty-third day of May, in the year 1847, here, I soon realized the terrible mistake I had made that I arrived. As Vinda had foretold, that year —for I am sure that she loved me as well. During was quite correspondent with the year 1943 of the the last few years my longing for her has grown cycle during which I had left. I came down, un- more unbearably great with every hour, and I can- fortunately enough, in the Sahara desert, but not not remain here any longer. far from a settlement. I need not describe the To-morrow, Martyn will accompany me for the difficulties I encountered in securing my passage last time to that laboratory in the country which back to New York. I arrived, of course, without a was the beginning of all my fantastic adventures. cent, and without even a stitch of clothing besides He will say good-bye again, a final good-bye this the suit, which I discarded at the earliest oppor- time, and he will adjust about me the suit, the tunity in favor of a wretched tatter of rags which globe, and the machines. I will press the top button left me almost as naked as I would have been with- —the top button ! And then—only a few hours until out it, Had it not been for the generosity af a cer- I see Vinda again. THE MAN FROM THE ATOM 147

Martyn has made the calculations. I shall appear more perception than I have had (for does not each to her no more than a few hours after the departure cycle bring a finer civilization, and is not the man of that person who is following all my adventures. the basis of civilization?). Perhaps he will have It will, of course, be in the next cycle of time, and the intelligence to remain with Vinda, and I shall changes. surely will there will he But my Vinda meet him there—meet myself! How impossibly it be there, and 1 shall be able to take her in my savours of Poe and William Wilson! For if we tell her of all the love I have for her. arms and meet, and we both love Vinda, there will be only I cannot believe that it will he another woman. No one way to settle it—we must fight, fight to the —just as this Martyn is the same Martyn I left, death perhaps, for this love is very great. And, if so will that Vinda be my Vinda. Surely it is the we are the same man, will the death of one mean soul that counts, and the soul is the same. death of the other too? It doe3 not matter. There is one thing that sometimes worried my the least to leaping mind. There is this other Kirby-—this At least I shall be able to say at once Vinda double of mine, this other me. Perhaps he will have that I love her. . . . (THE END.)

The Infinite Vision By CHARLES C. WINN (Concluded)

Then the storm outside broke into its full fury. a terrible cry. "THE RAY !" he shrieked and leaped

Lightning played in rapid streams, and thunder toward the far end of the switchboard ! But it was echoed and re-echoed with mighty din. too' late! Suddenly a bolt of blinding light reached down With a sudden lurch, the thing on the roof had from the sky to the tower upon the dome. The fallen completely to the perpendicular. There was partially fused metal gave to the weight, and the a second frightful din as it rent asunder all within great ray slowly fell in a wide arc to the earth. its path, ripping out the very vitals of the delicate There was a series of frightful reports, as it tore apparatus that gave it life ! Then it grew dark. the mountain asunder with its mighty force. above in wild cadence the thunder drums of In the room below the image no longer showed And rolled out a pean of victory, over the shat- sharp and clear upon the screen, hut was entirely Nature rash mortals who fain would obscured by a mass of whirling grayish green. Then tered fragments of the secrets. as the awful crashes rent the air, Faxworthy gave know her innermost THE END

Back Numbers New of "Amazing Stories" Scientifiction Stories are interested in scientifiction doubt you will be interested to you IFstories, you will find several excellent NOknow, if you have not secured the ones in AMAZING STORIES' sister first issue of AMAZING STORIES magazines, and SCI- that back numbers can be secured at the RADIO NEWS rate of 25c per copy, postpaid. The contents ENCE AND INVENTION. RADIO NEWS for May contains "The of the first issue were: Radio Burglar", by Ernest M. Thompson, installment, by "Off On a Cometh first a very excellent radio story that will hold Jules Verne. your attention from first to last. "The New Accelerator," by H. G. Wells. In SCIENCE AND INVENTION, the serial, "Tarrano the Conqueror", by "The Man From the Atom," (First part) Ray Cummings, has been running for sev- by G. Peyton Wertenbaker. eral months. The author of this story also "The Thing From—Outside," by George wrote "The Girl in the Golden Atom", Allen England. "Around the Universe", and "The Man on Conqueror" "The Man Who Saved the Earth," by Aus- the Meteor". "Tarrano the is amazing tin Hall. one of the weirdest and most stories it has ever been our good fortune to "The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar," read. by Edgar Allan Poe. Copies of RADIO NEWS and SCI- Copies of this issue may be secured from ENCE AND INVENTION may be se- the publishers on receipt of 25c, coin or cured at all newsstands, and back numbers stamps, as long as the supply lasts. can be obtained from the publishers. Ad- Address: Experimenter Publishing Co., dress: Experimenter Publishing Co., 53 53 Park Place, New York City. Park Place, New York City.

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iiur of tbe balloon at a OFF ON A.COMET 149 What Has Gone Before — grease-cup rHE story opens in Africa in Alge: up by the on the bottom of the lead. the capital. An officer in the French army^i Nothing else can be found as forming the ocean Captain Servadac—and a Russian nobleman bed. Some English officers are found on an isolated —Count Timascheff—are preparing to fight a duel spot, ivhich was supposed to be all that was left

about a lady. Servadac occupies 'part of the time be- of the Rock of Gibraltar. Presently a, sealed tube fore the encounter in an attempt to write a poem to is found floating on the water—an old leather tele- the lady. Just when he ivas getting to an end of his scope ease—with a message from some student attempt, a sudden convulsion occurred mid a great of astronomy. Nov: wpyr eltensions rise that the change in the universe was noted. The sun rose in temperature, which has been very high, may fall the West, the day wan one-half Us former duration, to that of inter-stellar space. Later, in the midst gravity was reduced so thai they could jump to a of these fears, some more inhabitants are found— height of SO or 40 feet with hardly any effort. There one a charming little girl. Then another message was a change in the contour of the country and- an from the supposed astronomer is found floating on atmosphere of utter mystery prevailed. The line of the ocean—this time in a meat-can. The next ar- the shore was changed-. Everything was altered. rival is a trading Jew in. his "Tartan"—as this Medi- The hero, Servadac, in clone in Iris explorations with terranean craft is called. As the weather gets colder his servant, Ben Zoof. An unknown satellite is and colder, they betake themselves to a cave in the seen in the sky. The heat is extreme. side of a volcano, where the temperature is kept The Russian nobleman owned a yacht, the "Do- imrm by a lava flow. Next, a carrier pigeon brings bryna." And now Captain Servadac and kis servant them a third message from the astronomer. The see this on the distant ocean. She reaches the shore ocean now is frozen over. They put metal sleigh- and finds a safe harbor. Her owner leaves her and runners under the boat and go off with almost ice- meets Captain Servadac. The duel under these boat speed and find an island, on which there is a strange circumstances is forgotten. The "Dobryna" monument—a surveyor's pylon—and there they also is put to work to explore the surroundings and to find a man, apparently dead, but who proves to have try to find France. A light is seen and on a little some vestage of life in him still. Thirty-six hours island is discovered the tomb of Louis IX. On tak- later, the ice-boat brings them all back to their

ing soundings, a strange mineral % Off On a Comet Or Hector Servadac By JVLES VERNE Book II

The only intelligible words which the astronomer had uttered had been, "My comet!" THE ASTRONOMER To what could the exclamation refer? Was it 1Y THE return of the expedition, con- to be conjectured that a fragment of the earth had veying its contribution from Formen- been chipped off by the collision of a comet? and ;era, the known population of Gallia if so, was it implied that the name of the comet vas raised to a total of thirty-six. itself was Gallia, and were they mistaken in sup- On learning the details of his friends* posing that such was the name given by the savant

discoveries, Count Timascheff } to the little world that had been did not hesitate in believing so suddenly launched into that the exhausted individual /N the first book, Jules Verne told space? Again and again they who was lying before him was us what happened to one specific discussed these questions; but the author alike of the two un- pari of the Earth, and gave hypo- no satisfactory answer could be thetical reasons for these astounding signed documents picked up at found. The only man who was conclusions and their natural conse- sea, able to light and of the third statement quences. But into this book, the throw any upon so recently brought to hand by author brings the astronomer—a scien- the subject was lying amongst the carrier-pigeon. Manifestly, tific genius in his particular field. It is them in an unconscious and he had arrived at some knowl- he who explains scientifically (though half-dying condition. temperamentally, to be sure) just what edge of Gallia's movements : he Apart from motives of hu- happened, how it happened and why it had estimated her distance happened. By exact calculation, he manity, motives of self-interest

from the sun ; he had calculated predicts with correctness, the very made it a matter of the deepest the diminution of her tangen- minute in which their return to Earth concern to restore animation to Though this story tial speed; but there was noth- could be effected. that senseless form. Ben Zoof, is the product a fantastic imagina- ing to show that he had arrived of after making the encouraging tion, it is not without the realms of at the remark that savants have as conclusions which were possibility tliai similar calculations of the most paramount interest may sometime be made for actual, many lives as a ;cat, proceeded, to them all. Had he ascertained practical purposes. with Negrete's assistance, to the true character of her orbit? give the body such a vigorous had he established any datafrom rubbing as would have threat- which it would be possible to reckon what time must ened serious injury to any ordinary mortal, whilst elapse before she would again approach the earth? they administered cordials and restoratives froin 150 AMAZING STORIES

the Dobryna's medical stores powerful enough, one moment's intermission for the best part of half an might think, to rouse the very dead. hour, the astronomer heaved a faint sigh, which Meanwhile the captain was racking his brain in ere long was followed by another and another. He his exertions to recall what were the circumstances half opened his eyes, closed them again, then opened of his previous acquaintance with the Frenchman them completely, but without exhibiting any con- upon whose features he was gazing; he only grew sciousness whatever of his situation. A few words more and more convinced that he had once been seemed to escape his lips, but they were quite un- familiar with them. Perhaps it was not altogether intelligible. Presently he raised his right hand to surprising that he had almost forgotten him; he his forehead as though instinctively feeling for had never seen hira since the days of his youth, that something that was missing; then, all of a sudden, time of life which, with a certain show of justice, his features became contracted, his face flushed has been termed the age of ingratitude; for, in with apparent irritation, and he exclaimed fretfully, point of fact, the astronomer was none other than "My spectacles! —where are my spectacles?" Professor Palmyrin Rosette, Servadac's old science- In order to facilitate his operations, Ben Zoof master at the Lycee Charlemagne. had removed the spectacles in spite of the tenacity After completing his year of elementary studies, with which they seemed to adhere to. the temples Hector Servadae had entered the school at Saint of his patient; but he now rapidly brought them Cyr, and from that time he and his former tutor back and readjusted them as best he could to what had never met, so that naturally they would well- seemed to be their natural position on the aquiline nigh pass from each other's recollection. One thing, nose. The professor heaved a long sigh of relief, on the other hand, might conduce to a mutual and and once more closed hi3 eyes. permanent impression on their memories; during Before long the astronomer roused himself a little the year at the Lycee, young Servadae, never of a more, and glanced inquiringly about him, but soon very studious turn of mind, had contrived, as the relapsed into his comatose condition. When next he ringleader of a set of like caliber as himself, to opened his eyes, Captain Servadae happened to be lead the poor professor a life of perpetual torment. bending down closely over him, examining his fea- On the discovery of each delinquency he would fume tures with curious scrutiny. The old man darted and rage in a manner that was a source of un- an angry look at him through the spectacles, and bounded delight to his audience. said sharply, "Servadae, five hundred line3 to- Two years after Servadae left the Lycee, Pro- morrow !" fessor Rosette had thrown up all educational em- It was an echo of days of old. The words were ployment in order that he might devote himself few, but they were enough to recall the identity entirely to the study of astronomy. He endeavored which Servadae was trying to make out. to obtain a post at the Observatory, but his un- "Is it possible?" he exclaimed. "Here is my old genial character was so well known in scientific teacher, Professor Rosette, in very flesh and blood." circles that he failed in his application; however, "Can't say much for the flesh," muttered Ben having some small private means, he determined Zoof. on his own account to carry on his researches with- The old man had again fallen back into a torpid out any official salary. He had really considerable slumber. Ben Zoof continued, "His sleep is getting genius for the science that he had adopted; besides more composed. Let him alone; he will come round discovering three of the latest of the telescopic yet. Haven't I heard of men more dried up than he planets, he had worked out the elements of the three is, being brought all the way from Egypt in cases hundred and twenty-fifth comet in the catalogue; covered with pictures?" but his chief delight was to criticize the publications "You idiot !—those were mummies ; they had been of other astronomers, and he was never better dead for ages." pleased than when he detected a flaw in their reck- Ben Zoof did not answer a word. He went on onings. preparing a warm bed, into which he managed to When Ben Zoof and Negrete had extricated their remove his patient, who soon fell into a calm and patient from the envelope of furs in which he had natural sleep. been wrapped by Servadae and the lieutenant, they Too impatient to await the awakening of the found themselves face to face with a shriveled astronomer and to hear what representations he the lieutenant, little man, about five feet two inches high, with a had to make, Servadae, the count, and round bald head smooth and shiny as an ostrich's constituting themselves what might be designated egg, no beard—unless the unshorn growth of a week the "Academy of Sciences" of the Colony, spent the could be so described—and a long hooked nose that whole of the remainder of the day in starting and supported a pair of spectacles such as to many near- discussing the wildest conjectures about their situa- sighted people seems to have become a part of their tion. The hypothesis, to which they had now ac- individuality. His nervous system was remarkably customed themselves for so long, that a new asteroid developed, and his body might not inaptly be com- had been formed by a fracture of the earth's sur- pared to one of the Rhumkorff coils of which face, seemed to fall to the ground when they found the wire, hundreds of yards in length, is permeated that Professor Palmyrin Rosette had associated the throughout by electric current. But whatever he name of Gallia, not with their present home, but theory was, his life, if possible, must be preserved. When with what he called "my comet"; and that he had been partially divested of his clothing, his being abandoned, they were driven to make the heart was found to be still beating, though faintly. most improbable speculations to replace it. Asserting that while there was life there was hope, Alluding to Rosette, Servadae took care to in- Ben Zoof recommenced his friction with more form his companions that, although the professor vigor than ever. was always eccentric, and at times very irascible, When the rubbing had been continued without a yet he was really exceedingly good-hearted; his OFF ON A COMET 151 bark was worse than his bite; and if suffered to It still reraaified a puzzle to them all why the take their course without observation, hia out- astronomer should apparently be interested in the breaks of ill-temper seldom lasted long. comet so much more than in the new little world in "We will certainly do our best to get on with which their strange lot was east. him," said the count. "He is no doubt the author "Can you explain this?" asked the count. of the papers, and we must hope that he will be "There is no accounting for the freaks of phi- able to give us some valuable information." losophers, you know," said Servadac ; "and have I not "Beyond a question the documents have originated told you that this philosopher in particular is one with him," assented the lieutenant. "Gallia was the of the most eccentric beings in creation?" word written at the top of every one of them, and "Besides," added the lieutenant, "it is exceeding- Gallia was the first word uttered by him in our ly likely that his observation had been going on for hearing." some considerable period before the convulsion hap- The astronomer slept on. Meanwhile, the three pened." together had no hesitation in examining his papers, Thus the general conclusion arrived at by the and scrutinizing the figures on his extemporized Gallian Academy of Science was this: That on the blackboard. The handwriting corresponded with night of the 31st of December, a comet, crossing that of the papers already received ; the blackboard the ecliptic, had come into collision with the earth, was covered with algebraical symbols traced in and that the violence of the shock had separated a chalk, which they were careful not to obliterate; huge fragment from the globe, which fragment and the papers, which consisted for the most part from that date had been traversing the remote of detached scraps, presented a perfect wilderness inter -planetary regions. Palmyrin Rosette would of geometrical figures, conic sections of every va- doubtless eonfirm their solution of the phenomenon. riety being repeated in countless profusion. Lieutenant Procope pointed out that these curves CHAPTER II evidently had reference to the orbits of comets, which are variously parabolic, hyperbolic, or elliptic. A BEVELATION If it were either of the first two, the comet, after once appearing within the range of terrestrial THE general population of the colony the vision, would vanish forever in the outlying regions TOarrival of the stranger was a matter of small of space; if the last, it would be sure, sooner or interest. The Spaniards were naturally too later, after some periodic interval, to return. indolent to be affected in any way by an incident From the primd facie appearance of his papers, that concerned themselves so remotely, while the then, it seemed probable that the astronomer, dur- Russians felt themselves simply reliant on their ing his sojourn at Formentera, had been devoting master, and as long as they were with him were himself to the study of cometary orbits; and as careless as to where or how they spent their days, calculations of this kind are ordinarily based upon Everything went on with them in an accustomed the assumption that the orbit is a parabola, it was routine; and they lay down night after night, not unlikely that he had been endeavoring to trace and awoke to their avocations morning after morn- the path of some particular comet. ing, just as if nothing extraordinary had occurred. "I wonder whether these calculations were made All night long Ben Zoof would not leave the pro- before or after the 1st of January; it makes all fessor's bedside. He had constituted himself sick the difference," said Lieutenant Procope. nurse, and considered his reputation at stake if "We must bide our time and hear," replied the he failed to set his patient on his feet again. He count. watched every movement,- listened to every breath, Servadac paced restlessly up and down. "I -would and never failed to administer the strongest cordials his sleep Ro- give a month of my life," he cried, impetuously, upon the slightest pretext. Even in "for every hour that the old fellow goes sleeping sette's irritable nature revealed itself. Ever and on." again, sometimes in a tone of uneasiness, and some- "You might be making a bad bargain," said Pro- times with the expression of positive anger, the of Gallia escaped his lips, as though he were cope, smiling. "Perhaps after all the comet has had name that his claim to the discovery of the nothing to do with the convulsion that we have dreaming contested or denied; but although experienced." comet was being the gather all he could, "Nonsense!" exclaimed the captain; "I know bet- his attendant was on alert to he able to catch nothing in the incoherent sen- ter than that, and so do you. Is it not as clear was that served to throw any real light upon the as daylight that the earth and this comet have been tences problem that they were all eager to solve. in collision, and the result has been that our little world has been split off and sent flying far into When the sun reappeared on the western horizon space ?" the professor was still sound asleep ; and Ben Zoof, Count Timaseheff and the lieutenant looked at who was especially anxious that the repose which be so beneficial should not be disturbed, each other in silence. "I do not deny your theory," promised to annoyance at hearing a loud knock- said Procope after a while. "If it be correct, I sup- felt considerable blunt heavy instrument pose we must conclude that the enormous disc we ing, evidently of some observed on the night of the catastrophe was the against a door that, had been placed at the entrance for the purpose of retaining comet itself; and the velocity with which it was of the gallery, more against intru- traveling must have been so great that it was hardly internal warmth than for guarding without. arrested at all by the attraction of the earth." sion from "Plausible enough," answered Count Timaseheff; "Confound it!" said Ben Zoof. "I must put a towards the "and it is to this comet that our scientific, friend stop to this;" and he made his way bere has given the name Gallia." door. AMAZING STORIES

"Who's there?" he cried, in no very amiable tone. "Where from?" "I," replied the quavering voice. "Prom the Balearic Isles." "Who are you?" "The Balearic Isles?" echoed Isaac. "Isaac Hakkabut. Let me in; do, please, let me "Yes." "Fine quarters for trade! Hardly twenty leagues "Oh, it is you, old Ashtaroth, is it? What do from Spain! He must have brought news from you want? Can't you get anybody to buy your Europe!" stuffs?" "Well, old Manasseh, what if he has?" "Nobody will pay me a proper price." "I should like to see him." "Well, old Shimei, you won't find a customer here. "Can't be," You had better be off." The Jew sidled close up to Ben Zoof, and laying "No; but do, please—do, please, let me in," sup- his hand on his arm, said in a low and insinuating plicated the Jew. "I want to speak to his Excellency, tone, "I am poor, you know; but I would give you the governor." a few reals if you would let me talk to this "The governor is in bed, and asleep." stranger." "I can wait until he awakes." But as if he thought he was making too liberal "Then wait where you are." an offer, he added, "Only it must be at once." And with this inhospitable rejoinder the orderly "He is too tired; he is worn out; he is fast was about to return to his place at the side of his asleep," answered Ben Zoof. patient, when Servadac, who had been roused by the "But I would pay you to wake him." sound of voices, called out, "What's the matter, The captain had overheard the tenor of the con- Een Zoof?" versation, and interposed sternly, "Hakkabut! if "Oh, nothing, air ; only that hound of a Hakkabut you make the least attempt to disturb our visitor, says he wants to apeak to you." I shall have you turned outside that door imme- "Let him in, then." diately." Ben Zoof hesitated. "No offense, my lord, I hope," stammered out the "Let him in, I say," repeated the captain, per- Jew. "I only meant " emptorily. "Silence!" shouted Servadac. However reluctantly, Ben Zoof obeyed. The door The old man hung his head, abashed. was unfastened, and Isaac Hakkabut, enveloped in "I will tell you what," said Servadac after a brief an old overcoat, shuffled into the gallery. In a few interval; "I will give you leave to hear what this moments Servadac approached, and the Jew began stranger has to tell as soon as he is able to tell us to overwhelm him with the most obsequious epithets. anything ; at present we have not heard a word from Without vouchsafing any reply, the captain beck- his lips." oned to the old man to follow him, and leading the The Jew looked perplexed. way to the centra! hall, 1 stopped, and turning so as "Yes," said Servadac; "when we hear his story, to look him steadily in the face, said, "Now is your you shall hear it too." opportunity. Tell want." !" me what you "And I hope it will be to your liking, old Ezekiel "Oh, my lord, my lord," whined Isaac, "you must added Ben Zoof in a voice of irony. have some news to tell me." They had none of them long to wait, for within "News ? What do you mean?" a few minutes Rosette's peevish voice was heard "From my little tartan yonder, I saw the yawl calling, "Joseph! Joseph!" go out from the rock here on a journey, and I saw The professor did not open his eyes, and appeared it come back, and it brought a stranger; and I to be slumbering on, but very shortly afterwards " thought—I thought—I thought called out again, "Joseph! Confound the fellow! "Well, you thought—what did you think?" where is he?" It was evident that he was half "Why, that perhaps the stranger had come from dreaming about a former servant now far away on the northern shores of the Mediterranean, and that the ancient globe. "Where's my blackboard, Joseph?" " I might ask him "Quite safe, sir," answered Ben Zoof, quickly. He paused again, and gave a glance at the Rosette unclosed his eyes and fixed them full upon captain. the orderly's face. "Are you Joseph?" he asked. "Ask him what? Speak out, man." "At your service, sir," replied Ben Zoof with im- "Ask him if he brings any tidings df Europe," perturbable gravity.

Hakkabut blurted out at last. "Then get me my coffee, and be quick about it." Servadac shrugged his shoulders in contempt and Ben Zoof left to go into the kitchen, and Servadac turned away. Here was a man who had been resi- approached the professor in order to assist him in dent three months in Gallia, a living witness to all rising to a sitting posture. the abnormal phenomena that had occurred, and yet "Do you recognize your quondam pupil, pro- refused to believe that his hope of making good fessor?" he asked. bargains with European traders was at an end. "Ah, yes, yes; you are Servadac," replied Ro- Surely nothing, thought the captain, will convince sette. "It is twelve years or moi-e since I saw you; the old rascal now; and he moved off in disgust. I hope you have improved." The orderly, however, who had listened with much "Quite a reformed character, sir, I assure you," amusement, was by no means disinclined for the said Servadac, smiling. conversation to be continued. "Are you satisfied, "Well, that's as it should be; that's right," said old Ezekiel?" he asked. the astronomer with fussy importance. "But let "Isn't it so? Am I not right? Didn't a stranger me have my coffee," he added impatiently; "I can- arrive here last night?" inquired the Jew. not collect my thoughts without my coffee." "Yes, quite true." Fortunately, Ben Zoof appeared with a great cup, OFF ON A COMET 153 hot and strong. After draining it with much ap- "Where, then," cried Servadae eagerly, "where parent relish, the professor got out of bed, walked are we?" into the common hall, round which he glanced with "You are on my comet, on Gallia itself!" a pre-occupied air, and proceeded to seat himself in And the professor gazed around him with a per- an armchair, the most comfortable which the cabin fect air of triumph. of the Dobryna had supplied. Then, in a voice full of satisfaction, which involuntarily recalled the ex- CHAPTER III clamations of delight that had wound up the two first of the mysterious documents that had been re- THE PHOFESSOIi's EXPERIENCES ceived, he burst out, "Well, gentlemen, what do you think of Gallia?" "\ TES, my comet!" repeated the professor, and There was no time for anyone to make a reply V from time to time he knitted his brows, and before Isaac Hakkabut had darted forward. 3. looked around him with a defiant air, as " "By the God though he could not get rid of the impression that "Who is that?" asked the startled professor; and someone was laying an unwarranted claim to its he frowned, and made a gesture of repugnance- proprietorship, or that the individuals before him Regardless of the efforts that were m'ade to silence were intruders upon his own proper domain. him, the Jew continued, "By the God of Abraham, I But for a considerable while, Servadae, the count, beseech you, give me some tidings of Europe!" and the lieutenant remained silent and sunk in "Europe?" shouted the professor, springing from thought. Here then, at last, was the unriddling of his seat as if he were electrified; "what does the the enigma they had been so long endeavoring to man want with Europe?" solve; both the hypotheses they had formed in suc- "I want to get there!" screeched the Jew; and in cession had now to give way before the announce- spite of every exertion to get him away, he clung ment of the real truth. The first supposition, that most tenaciously to the professor's chair, and again the rotatory axis of the earth had been subject to implored for news of Europe. some accidental modification, and the conjecture Rosette made no immediate reply. After a mo- that replaced it, namely that a certain portion of ment or two of reflection, he turned to Servadae the terrestrial sphere had been splintered off and and asked him whether it was not the middle carried into space, had both now to yield to the of April. representation that the earth had been grazed by "It is the twentieth," answered the captain. an unknown comet, which had caught up some scat- "Then to-day," said the astronomer, speaking tered fragments from its surface, and was bearing with the greatest deliberation—"to-day we are just them far away into sidereal regions. Unfolded lay three millions of leagues away from Europe." the past and the present before them; but this only The Jew was utterly crestfallen. served to awaken a keener interest about the future. "You seem here," continued the professor, "to Could the professor throw any light upon that? be very ignorant of the state of things." they longed to inquire, but did not yet venture to "How far we are ignorant," rejoined Servadae, ask him. "I cannot tell. But I will tell you all that we do Meanwhile Rosette assumed a pompous profes- know, and all that we have surmised." And as sional air, and appeared to be waiting for the entire briefly as he could, he related all that had happened party to be ceremoniously introduced to him. Quite since the memorable night of the thirty-first of willing to humor the vanity of the eccentric little December; how they had experienced the shock; man, Servadae proceeded to go through the ex- how the Dobryna had made her voyage; how they pected formalities. had discovered nothing except the fragments of the "Allow me to present to you my excellent friend, old continent at Tunis, Sardinia, Gibraltar, and now the Count Timascheff," he said. at Formentera; how at intervals the three anony- "You are very welcome," said Rosette, bowing to mous documents had been received; and, finally, the count with a smile of condescension. how the settlement at Gourbi Island had been aban- "Although I am not precisely a voluntary resi- doned for their present quarters at Nina's Hive. dent on your comet, Mr. Professor, I beg to acknowl- The astronomer had hardly patience to hear him edge your courteous reception," gravely responded to the end. "And what do you say is your surmise Timascheff. 'as to your present position?" he asked. Servadae could not quite conceal his amusement "Our supposition," the captain replied, "is this. at the count's irony, but continued, "This is Lieu- We imagine that we are on a considerable fragment tenant Proeope, the officer in command of the of the terrestrial globe that has been detached by Dobryna." collision with a planet to which you appear to have The professor bowed again in frigid dignity. given the name of Gallia." "His yacht has conveyed us right around Gallia," "Better than that!" cried Rosette, starting to added the captain. his feet with excitement. "Around Gallia?" eagerly exclaimed the pro- "How? Why? What do you mean?" cried the fessor, voices of the listeners. "Yes, entirely around it," answered Servadae, and "You are correct to a certain degree," continued without allowing time for reply, proceeded, "And the professor. "It is quite true that at 47 minutes, this is my orderly, Ben Zoof." 35.6 seconds after two o'clock on the morning of "Aide-de-camp to his Excellency the Governor

the first of January there was a collision ; my comet of Gallia," interposed Ben Zoof himself, anxious to grazed the earth; and the bits of the earth which maintain his master's honor as well as his own., you have named were1 carried clean away." Rosette scarcely bent his head. They were all fairly bewildered, The rest of the population of the Hive were 154 AMAZING STORIES

all presented in succession; the Russian sailors, the the good, but comparatively small, instrument he Spaniards, young Pablo, and little Nina, on whom had. the professor, evidently no lover of children, glared On one of these occasions, whilst carefully gaug- fiercely through his formidable spectacles. Isaac ing the recesses of Gemini, he espied a bright speck Hakkabut, after his introduction, begged to be al- which was unregistered in the chart, and which at lowed to ask one question. first he took for a small star that had escaped being soon "How may we hope to get back?" he in- entered in the catalogue. But the observation of a quired. few separate nights soon made it manifest that the "Get back!" rejoined Rosette, sharply; "who talks star was rapidly changing its position with regard of getting back? We have hardly started yet." to the adjacent stars, and the astronomer's heart Seeing that the professor was inclined to get began to leap at the thought that the renown of angry, Captain Servadac adroitly gave a new turn the discovery of a new planet would be associated to the conversation by asking him whether he would with his name. gratify them by relating his own recent ex- Redoubling his attention, he soon satisfied him- periences. The astronomer seemed pleased with the self that what he saw was not a planet; the rapidity proposal, at once and commenced a verbose and of its displacement rather forced him to the con- circumlocutory somewhat address, of which the fol- jecture that it must be a comet, and this opinion

. lowing summary presents the main features. was soon strengthened by the appearance of a coma, The French Government, being desirous of veri- and subsequently confirmed, as the body approached fying the measurements already made of the arc of the sun, by the development of a tail. the meridian of Paris > appointed a scientific com- A comet ! The discovery was fatal to all further mission for that purpose. From that commission progress in triangulation. However conscientiously the name of Palmyrin Rosette was omitted, ap- the assistant on the Spanish coast might look to the parently for no other reason than his personal un- kindling of the beacon. Rosette had not a glance to popularity. Furious at the slight, the professor re- spare for that direction; he had no eyes except for solved to set work to independently on his own ac- the one object of his notice, no thought apart from count, and declaring that there were inaccuracies that of one quarter of the firmament. in the previous geodesic operations, he determined A comet! No time must be lost in calculating its to re-examine the .results of the last triangulation which had united Formentera to the Spanish coast Now, in order to calculate the elements of a by a triangle, one of the sides of which measured comet, it is always deemed the safest mode of pro- over a hundred miles, the very operation which had cedure to assume the orbit to be a parabola. Ordi- already been so successfully accomplished by Arago narily, comets are conspicuous at their perihelia, as and Biot. being their shortest distances from the sun, which Accordingly, leaving Paris for the Balearic Isles, is the focus of their orbit, and inasmuch as a para- he placed his observatory on the highest point of bola is nearly an ellipse, but with its axis indefinite- Formentera, and accompanied as he was only by his ly produced, for some short portion of its pathway servant, Joseph, led the life of a recluse. He se- the orbit may be indifferently considered either one cured the services of a former assistant and dis- or the other; and in thi3 particular case the pro- patched him to a high peak on the coast of Spain, fessor was right in adopting the supposition of its where he had to superintend a helioscope, which, being parabolic. with the aid of a glass, could be read from Formen- Just as in a circle it is necessary to tera. A few books and instruments, and two months* know three points to determine the circumference, so, in as- victuals, was all the baggage he took with him, certaining the elements of a comet, three different except an excellent astronomical telescope, which positions must be observed before what astronomers was, indeed, almost part and parcel of himself, and call its "ephemeris" can be established. with which he assiduously scanned the heavens, in But Professor Rosette did not content himself the sanguine anticipation of making some discovery with three positions; taking advantage which would immortalize his name. of eveiy rift in the fog he made ten, twenty, thirty observa- The task he had undertaken demanded the ut- tions both in right ascension and in declination, most patience. Night after night, in order to fix the and succeeded in working out with the most minute apex of his triangle, he had to linger on the watch accuracy the five elements of the comet which was for the assistant's signal-light, but he did not forget evidently advancing with astounding rapidity that his predecessors, Arago and Biot, had had to to- wards the earth. wait sixty-one days for a similar purpose. What re- These elements were: tarded the work was the dense fog which, as men- 1. The inclination of the plane tioned before, at that time enveloped not only that of the cometary orbit to the plane of the ecliptic, part of Europe, but almost the entire world. an angle which is generally considerable; but in this Never failing to turn to the best advantage the case the planes were proved to coincide. few intervals when the mist lifted a little, the 2. The position astronomer would at the same time cast an inquir- of the ascending node, or the point where the ing glance at the firmament, as he was greatly in- comet crossed the terrestrial orbit. terested in the revision of the chart of the heavens, These two elements being obtained, - the position in the region contiguous to the constellation Gemini. in space of the comet's orbit was determined. To the naked eye this constellation consists of only 3. The direction of the axis major of the orbit, six stars, but through a telescope ten inches in which was found by calculating the longitude of the diameter, as many as six thousand are visible. Ro- comet's perihelion. sette, however, did not possess a telescope of this 4. The perihelion distance from the sun, which magnitude, and was obliged to content himself with settled the precise form of the parabola. OFF ON A COMET \ss

5. The motion of the comet, as being retrograde, "Pshaw!" said Rosette, disdainfully. "A mole- or unlike the planets, from east to west. hill like Montmartre would have been ground to Rosette thus found himself able to calculate the powder in a moment." date at which the comet would reach its perihelion, "Mole-hill!" exclaimed Ben Zoof, stung to the and overjoyed at his discovery, without thinking of quick. "I can tell you it would have caught up your calling it Palmyra or Rosette, after his own name, .bit of a comet and worn it like a feather in a cap." he resolved that it should be known as Gallia. 1 The professor looked angry, and Servadac having His next business was to draw up a formal re- imposed silence upon his orderly, explained the port. Not only did ho at once recognize that a col- worthy soldier's sensitiveness on all that concerned lision with the earth was possible, but he soon fore- Montmartre. Always obedient to his master, Ben saw that it was inevitable, and that it must happen Zoof held his tongue ; but he felt that he could never on the night of the 31st of December; moreover, as forgive the slight that had been cast upon his be- the bodies were moving in opposite directions, the loved home. shock could hardly fail to be violent. It was now all-important to learn whether the To say that he was elated at the prospect was astronomer had been able to continue his observa- far below the truth; his delight amounted almost tions, and whether he had learned sufficient of to delirium. Anyone else would have hurried from Gallia's path through space to make him competent the solitude of Formentera in sheer fright; but, to determine, at least approximately, the period of without communicating a word of his startling dis- its revolution round the sun. With as much tact covery, he remained resolutely at his post. From oc- and caution as he could, Lieutenant Procope en- casional newspapers which he had received, he had deavored to intimate the general desire for some learnt that fogs, dense as ever, continued to envelop information on this point. both hemispheres, so that he was assured that the "Before the shock, sir," answered the professor, existence of the comet was utterly unknown else- "I had conclusively demonstrated the path of the where; and the ignorance of the world as to the peril comet; but, in consequence of the modification which that threatened it averted the panic that would have that shock has entailed upon my comet's orbit, I followed the publication of the facts, and left the have been compelled to recommence my calculations philosopher of Formentera in sole possession of the entirely." great secret. He clung to his post with the greater The lieutenant looked disappointed. persistency, because his calculations had led him to "Although the orbit of the earth was unaltered," the conclusion that the comet would strike the earth continued the professor, "the result of the collision somewhere to the soutn*of Algeria, and as it had a was the projection of the comet into a new orbit solid nucleus, he felt sure that, as h altogether." i the effect would be "unique," and he "And may I ask," said Procope, deferentially, be in the vicinity. "whether you have got the elements of the fresh The shock came, and with it the results already orbit?" recorded, Palmyrin Rosette was suddenly separated "Yes." " from his servant Joseph, and when, after a long "Then perhaps you knowi— period of unconsciousness, he came to himself, he "I know this, sir, that at 47 minutes, 35.6 sec- found that he was the solitary occupant of the only onds after two oclock on the morning of the 1st fragment that survived of the Balearic Archipelago. of January last, Gallia, in passing its ascending Such was the substance of the narrative which node, came in contact with the earth; that on the the professor gave with sundry repetitions and 10th of January it crossed the orbit of Venus ; that it reached its perihelion on the 15th; that it re- digressions ; while he was giving it, he frequently paused and frowned as if irritated in a way that crossed the orbit of Venus; that on the 1st of seemed by no means justified by the patient and February it passed its descending node; on the good-humored demeanor of his audience. 13th crossed the orbit of Mars; entered the zone of "But now, gentlemen," added the professor, "I the telescopie planets on the 10th of March, and, must tell you something more. Important changes attracting Neriiia, carried it off as a satellite." Servadac interposed: have resulted from the collision ; the cardinal points have been displaced; gravity has been diminished; "We are already acquainted with well nigh all not that I ever supposed for a minute, as you did, these extraordinary facts; many of them, moreover, learned documents which picked up, that I was still upon the earth. No ! the earth, at- we from we tended by her moon, continued to rotate along her and which, although unsigned, we cannot entertain proper orbit. But we, gentlemen, have nothing to a doubt have originated with you." complain of; our destiny might have been far worse; Professor Rosette drew himself up proudly and we might all have been crushed to death, or the said : "Of course they originated with me. I sent comet might have remained in adhesion to the them off by hundreds. Prom whom else could they earth; and in neither of these cases should we have come?" had the satisfaction of making this marvelous ex- "From no one but yourself, certainly," rejoined cursion through untraversed solar regions. No, the count, with grave politeness. gentlemen, I repeat it, we have nothing to regret." Hitherto the conversation had thrown no light And as the professor spoke, he seemed to kindle upon the future movements of Gallia, and Rosette with the emotion of such supreme contentment that was disposed apparently to evade, or at least to post- no one had the heart to gainsay his assertion. Ben pone, the subject. When Lieutenant Procope was Zoof alone ventured an unlucky remark to the effect about to press his inquiries in a more categorical that if the comet had happened to strike against form, therefore, Servadac, thinking it inadvisable to Montmartre, instead of a bit of Africa, it would press the little savant too far, interrupted him by have mat with some resistance. asking the professor how he accounted for the earth : ,

156 AMAZING STORIES having suffered so little from such a formidable "Afraid so? Why afraid of 3uch a meeting?" concussion, "Because we are doing exceedingly well as we '1 account for it in this way," answered Rosette are." The professor stamped his foot upon the "the earth was traveling at the rate of 28,000 ground, by way of emphasis, and added, "If I had leagues an hour, and Gallia at the rate of 57,000 my will, Gallia should never return to the earth leagues an hour. Therefore the result was the same again !" as though a train, rushing along at a speed of about 85,000 leagues an hour had suddenly en- CHAPTER IV countered some obstacle. The nucleus of the comet, A REVISED CALENDAR being excessively hard, has done exactly what a ball previous would do fired with that velocity close to a pane hypotheses were now forgotten ALLin the presence of glass. It has crossed the earth without cracking of the one great fact that Gal- lia comet it." was a and gravitating through re- mote solar regions. Captain Servadac "It is possible you may be right," said Servadac, became aware thoughtfully. that the huge disc that had been looming through the clouds after the shock was the retreating earth, "Eight! of course I am right!" replied the snap- to the proximity pish professor. Soon, recovering his equanimity, of which the one high tide they had experienced was also to be attributed. however, he continued: "It is fortunate that the As to the fulfillment earth was only touched obliquely; if the comet had of the professor's predic- tion of an ultimate return to the terrestrial impinged perpendicularly, it must have plowed its sphere, that was a point on which it must way deep below the surface, and the disasters it be owned that the captain, after the first might have caused are beyond reckoning. Per- flush of his excitement was over, was not without haps," he added, with a smile, "even Montmartre many misgivings. next day might not have survived the calamity." The or two were spent in providing for the accommodation of the "Sir!" shouted Ben Zoof, quite unable to bear the newcomer. Fortunately his desires were very unprovoked attack. moderate; he seemed to live among the stars, as long "Quiet, Ben Zoof!" said Servadac sternly. and as he was well provided with coffee, he cared little Fortunately for the sake of peace, Isaac Hakka- for luxuries, and paid little or no regard to the but, who at length was beginning to realize some- ingenuity with which all the internal arrangements thing of the true condition of things, came forward of Nina's Hive had been devised. Anxious at this moment, and in a voice trembling with eager- to show all proper respect to his former tutor, Servadac proposed to ness, implored the professor to tell him when they put the most comfortable apartment of the place at his disposal; would all be back again upon the earth. but the professor resolutely declined "Are you in a great hurry?" asked the professor to occupy it, Baying that what coolly. he required was a small chamber, no matter how small, provided The Jew was about to speak again, when Captain that it was elevated and secluded, so that he it Servadac interposed: "Allow me to say that, in could use as an observa- tory where he might continue his studies somewhat more scientific terms, I was about to ask without disturbance. A general search was instituted, and you the same question. Did I not understand you to before long they were lucky enough to find, say that, as the consequence of the collision, the about a hundred feet above the central grotto, small character of. the comet's orbit has been changed?" a re- cess or cave hollowed, as it were, "You did, sir." in the mountain side, which would exactly "Did you imply that the orbit has ceased to be a answer their purpose. It contained room parabola?" enough for a bed, a table, an arm- chair, a chest of drawers, and, "Just so." what was of still more consequence, for the indispensable telescope. "Is it then an hyperbola? and are we to be car- One small stream of lava, an off-shoot of the ried on far and away into remote distance, and great torrent, sufficed to keep the apartment never, never return?" warm. In these retired quarters the "I did not say an hyperbola." astronomer took up his abode. It was on all hands acknowledged to be "And is it not?" advisable to let him go on entirely in his way. "It is not." own His meals were taken to him at stated intervals; "Then it must be an ellipse?" he slept but little, carried "Yes." on his calculations by day, his observations by night, and very rarely made his "And does its plane coincide with the plane of the appearance amongst the earth?" rest of the little com- munity. "Yes." The cold became very intense, the "Then it must be a periodic comet?" now thermome- ter 30° "It is." registering C. below zero. The mercury, Servadac involuntarily raised a ringing shout of however, never exhibited any of those fluctuations joy that echoed again along the gallery. that are ever and again to be observed in variable "Yes," continued the professor, "Gallia is a peri- climates, but continued slowly and steadily to fall, bdic comet, and allowing for the perturbations to and in all probability would continue to do so un- til it reached the normal temperature regions which it is liable from the attraction of Mars and of the of outlying space. Jupiter and Saturn, it will return to the earth again in two years precisely." This steady sinking of the mercury was accom- "You mean that in two years after the first shock, panied by a complete stillness of the atmosphere; Gallio will meet the earth at the same point at the very air seemed to be congealed ; no particle of which they met before?" said Lieutenant Proeope. it stirred ; from zenith to horizon there was never a "I am afraid so," said Rosette. cloud; neither were there any of the damp mists or OFF ON A COMET. 157 dry fogs which so often extend over the polar re- of Gallia into his possession, and to do this he must gions of the earth ; the sky was always clear ; the sun sell hie goods. But he would not sell them yet; shone by day and the stars by night without caus- there might come a time when for many articles ing any perceptible difference in the temperature. the supply would not be equal to the demand; that

These peculiar conditions rendered the cold en- would be the time for him ; by waiting he reckoned durable even in the open air. The cause of so many he should be able to transact some lucrative busi- of the diseases that' prove fatal to Arctic explorers ness. resides in the cutting winds, unwholesome fogs, or' Such in his solitude were old Isaac's cogitations, terrible snow drifts, which, by drying up, relaxing, whilst the universal population of Nina's Hive were or otherwise affecting the lungs, hinder them from congratulating themselves upon being rid of his fulfilling their proper functions. But during per- odious presence. iods of calm weather, when the air was absolutely As already stated in the message brought by the still, many polar navigators, well-clothed and prop- carrier pigeon, the distance traveled by Gallia in erly fed, were known to withstand a temperature April was 39,000,000 leagues, and at the end of the when the thermometer fell to 60° below zero. It month she was 110,000,000 leagues from the sun. was the experience of Perry upon Melville Island, A diagram representing the elliptical orbit of the of Kane beyond latitude 81° north, and of Hall and planet, accompanied by an ephemeris made out in the crew of the Polaris, that, however intense the minute detail, had been drawn out by the professor. cold, in the absence of the wind they could always The curve was divided into twenty-four sections of brave its rigor. unequal length, representing respectively the dis- Notwithstanding, then, the extreme lowness of tance described in the twenty-four months of the the temperature, the little population found that Gallian year, the twelve former divisions, according they were able to move about m the open air with to Kepler's law, gradually diminishing in length as perfect immunity. The Governor General made it they approached the point denoting the aphelion and his special care to see that his people were all well increasing as they neared the perihelion. fed and warmly clad. Food was both wholesome and It was on the 12th of May that Rosette exhibited abundant, and besides the furs brought from the this result of his labors to Servadac, the count, and Dobryna's stores, fresh skins could very easily be the lieutenant, who visited his apartment and nat- procured and made up into wearing apparel. A daily urally examined the drawing with the keenest in- course of out-door exercise was enforced upon terest. Gallia's path, extending beyond the orbit of everyone; not even Pablo and Nina were exempted Jupiter, lay clearly defined before their eyes, the from the general rule; the two children, muffled up progress along the orbit and the solar distances be- in furs, like little Esquimaux, skated along to- ing inserted for each month separately. Nothing gether, Pablo ever at his companion's side, ready could look plainer, and if the professor's calcula- to give her a helping hand whenever she was weary tions were correct (a point upon which they dared from her exertions. not, if they would, express the semblance of a After his interview with the newly arrived doubt), Gallia would accomplish her revolution in astronomer, Isaac Hakkabut slunk back again to his precisely two years, and would meet the earth, tartan. A change had come over his ideas; he could which would in the same period of time have com- no longer resist the conviction that he was indeed pleted two annual revolutions, in the very same spot millions and millions of miles away from the earth, as before. What would be the consequences of a where he had carried on so varied and remunerative second collision they scarcely ventured to think. a traffic. It might be imagined that this realization Without lifting his eye from the diagram, which of his true position would have led him to a better he was still carefully scrutinizing, Servadac said, mind, and that, in some degree at least he would "I see that during the month of May, Gallia will have been induced to regard the few fellow-crea- only travel 30,400,000 leagues, and that this will tures with whom his lot had been 30 strangely cast, leave her about 140,000,000 leagues distant from otherwise than as mere instruments to be turned the sun." to his own personal and pecuniary advantage; but "Just so," replied the professor. no—the desire of gain was too thoroughly in- "Then we have already passed the zone of the grained into his hard nature ever to be eradicated, telescopic planets, have we not?" asked the count. and secure in his knowledge that he was under the "Can you not use your eyes?" said the professor, protection of a French officer, who, except under testily. "If you will look you will see the zone the most urgent necessity, would not permit him marked clearly enough upon the map." to be molested in retaining his property, he de- Without noticing the interruption, Servadac con- termined to wait for some emergency to arise which tinued his own remarks, "The comet then, I see, should enable him to use his present situation for is to reach its aphelion on the 15th of January, ex- his own profit. actly a twelvemonth after passing its perihelion." On the one hand, the Jew took it into account "A twelvemonth! Not a Gallian twelvemonth?" that although the chances of returning to the exclaimed Rosette. earth might be remote, yet from what he had heard Servadac looked bewildered. Lieutenant Procope from the professor he could not believe that they could not suppress a smile. were improbable ; on the other, he knew that a "What are you laughing at?" demanded the pro- considerable sum of money, in English and Russian fessor, turning round upon him angrily. coinage, was in the possession of various members "Nothing, sir; only it amuses me to see how you of the little colony, and this, although valueless want to revise the terrestrial calendar." now, would be worth as much as ever if the proper "I want to be logical, that's all." condition of things should be restored; accordingly, "By all manner of means, my dear professor, let he set his heart on getting all the monetary wealth us be logical." —

158 AMAZING STORIES

"Well, then, listen to me," resumed the professor, otony of existence was an occasional visit from the stiffly. "I presume you are taking it for granted blustering, nervous, little professor, when some that the Gallian year—by which I mean the time in sudden fancy induced him to throw aside his as- which Gallia makes one revolution round the sun tronomical studies for a time, and pay a visit to is equal in length to two terrestrial years." the common hall. His arrival there was generally They signified their assent. hailed as the precursor of a little season of excite- "And that year, like every other year, ought to be ment. Somehow or other the conversation would divided into twelve months." eventually work its way round to the topic of a fu- "Yes, certainly, if you wish it," said the captain, ture collision between the comet and the earth; acquiescing. and in the same degree as this was a matter of "If I wish it!" exclaimed Rosette. "Nothing of sanguine anticipation to Captain Servadac and his the sort! Of course a year must have twelve friends, it was a matter of aversion to the astrono- !" months mical enthusiast, who had no desire to quit his "Of course," said the captain. present quarters in a sphere which, being of his "And how many days will make a month?" asked own discovery, he could hardly have cared for the professor. more if it had been of his own creation. The inter- "I suppose sixty or sixty-two, as the case may be. view would often terminate in a scene of consider- The day3 now are only half as long as they used to able animation. be," answered the captain. On the 27th of June (old calendar) the profes- "Servadac, don't be thoughtless!" cried Rosette, sor burst like a cannon-ball into the central hall, with all the petulant impatience of the old peda- where they were all assembled, and without a word gogue. "If the days are only half as long as they of salutation or of preface, accosted the lieutenant were, sixty of them cannot make up a twelfth part in the way in which in earlier days he had been ac- of Gallia's year—cannot be a month." customed to speak to an idle school-boy, "Now, "I suppose not," replied the confused captain. lieutenant! no evasions! no shuffling! Tell me, have "Do you not see, then," continued the astronomer, you or have you not circumnavigated Gallia?" "that if a Gallian month is twice as long as a ter- The lieutenant drew himself up stiffly. "Eva- restrial month, and a Gallian day is only half as sions! shufflings! I am not accustomed, sir—" he long as a terrestrial day, there must be a hundred began in atone evidencing no little resentment; but and twenty days in every month?" catching a hint from the count he subdued his voice, "No doubt you are right, professor," said Count and simply said, "We have." Timascheff ; "but do you not think that the use of a "And may I ask," continued the professor, quite new calendar such as this would practically be very unaware of hia previous discourtesy, "whether, ?" troublesome when you made your voyage, you took any account "Not at all! not at all! I do not intend to use any of distances?" other," was the professor's bluff reply. "As approximately as I could," replied the lieu- After pondering for a few moments, the captain tenant; "I did what I could by log and compass. I spoke again. "According to this new calendar, it was unable to take the altitude of sun or star."

isn't the middle all ; it some of May at must now be "At what result did you arrive? What is the time in March." measurement of our equator?" "Yes," said the professor, "to-day is the 26th of "I estimate the total circumference of the equa- March. It is the 266th day of the Gallian year. It tor to be about 1,400 miles." corresponds with the 133d day of the terrestrial "Ah!" said the professor, more than half speak- year. You are quite correct, it is the 26th of ing to himself, "a circumference of 1,400 miles March." would give a diameter of about 450 miles. That "Strange!" muttered Servadac. would be approximately about one-sixteenth of the "And a month, a terrestrial month, thirty old diameter of the earth." days, sixty new days hence, it will be the 86th of Raising his voice, he continued, "Gentlemen, in March." order to complete my account of my comet Gallia, I with "Ha, ha!" roared the captain; "this is logic require to know its area, its mass, its volume, its a vengeance!" density, its specific gravity." The old professor had an undefined consciousness "Since we know the diameter," remarked the lieu- that his former pupil was laughing at him and as tenant, "there can be no difficulty in finding its it was growing late, he made an excuse that he had surface and its volume." no more leisure. The visitors accordingly quitted "And did I say there difficulty?" asked the observatory. was any the professor, fiercely. "I have been able to reckon It must be owned that the revised calendar was that ever since I was born," left to the professor's sole use, and the colony was "Cock-a-doodle-doo!" cried Zoof, delighted fairly puzzled whenever he referred to such unheard Ben at any opportunity to pay ofG his of dates as the 47th of April or the 118th of May. old grudge. According to the old calendar, June had now ar- The professor looked at him, but did not vouch- rived; and by the professor's tables Gallia during safe a word. Addressing the eaptain, he said, "Now, the month would have advanced 27,500,000 leagues Servadac, take your paper and a pen, and find me the surface of Gallia." farther along its orbit, and would have attained a distance of 155,000,000 leagues from the sun. The With more submission than when he was a thermometer continued to fall; the atmosphere re- school-boy, the captain sat down and endeavored to mained dear as heretofore. The population per- recall the proper formula. formed theii daily avocations with systematic rou- "The surface of a sphere? Multiply circumfer- tine; and almost the only thing that broke the mon- ence by diameter." OFF ON A COMET 159

"Right!" cried Rosette; "but it ought to he done "Then we await your orders," was the captain's by this time." reply. "Circumference, 1,400; diameter, 450; area of "You must understand, however," 3aid Rosette, surface, 630,000," read the captain. "that there are various preliminary calculations to "True," replied Rosette, "630,000 square miles; be made; you wiil have to wait tilj they are just 292 times leas than that of the earth." finished." "Pretty little comet! nice little comet!" muttered "As long as you please," said the count. Ben Zoof. "No hurry at all," observed the captain, who was The astronomer bit his lip, snorted, and cast at not in the least impatient to continue his mathe- him a withering look, but did not take any further matical exercises. notice. "Then, gentlemen," said the astronomer, "with "Now, Captain Servadac," said the professor, your leave we will for this purpose make an ap- "take your pen again, and find me the volume of pointment a few weeks hence. What do you say Gallia." to the 62d of April?" Without noticing the general the The captain hesitated. smile which novel date provoked, the astronomer hall, "Quick, quick!" cried the professor, impatiently; left the and retired to his observatory. "surely you have not forgotten how to find the volume of a sphere!" "A moment's breathing time, plea3e." CHAPTER V "Breathing time, indeed! A mathematician should not want breathing time! Come, multiply wanted: a steelyard the surface by the third of the radius-. Don't you T TNDER the still diminishing influence of the recollect?" I sun's attraction, but without let or hind- Captain Servadac applied himself to his task while %^J ranee, Gallia continued its inter-planetary the by-standers waited, with some difficulty sup- course, accompanied by Nerina, its captured satel- pressing their inclination to laugh. There was a lite, which performed its fortnightly revolutions short silence, at the end of which Servadac an- with unvarying regularity. nounced that the volume of the comet was 47,880,000 Meanwhile, the question beyond all others im- cubic miles.' portant was ever recurring to the minds of Serva- "Just about one five-thousandth that of the dac and his two companions ; were the astronomer's earth," observed the lieutenant. calculations correct, and was there a sound founda- comet!" said "Nice little comet! pretty little tion for his prediction that the comet would again Ben Zoof. touch the earth? But whatever might be their at The professor scowled him, and was mani- doubts or anxieties, they were fain to keep all their festly annoyed at having the insignificant dimen- misgivings to themselves; the professor was of a sions of his comet pointed out in so disparaging a temper far too cross-grained for them to venture to manner. Lieutenant Procope further remarked that ask him to revise or re-examine the results of his from the earth he supposed it to be about as con- observations. and spicuous as a star of the seventh magnitude, The rest of the community by no means shared would require a good telescope to see it. in their uneasiness. Negrete and his fellow-country- laughed the orderly, aloud; "charm- "Ha, ha!" men yielded to their ties liny with philosophical in- ing little comet! so pretty; and so modest!" difference. Happier and better provided for than roared the professor, clenched "You rascal!" and they had ever been in their lives, it did not give his hand in passion, as if about to strike him. them a passing thought, far less cause any serious the point Ben Zoof laughed the more, and was on concern, whether they were still circling round the of repeating his satirical comments, when a stern sun, or whether they were being carried right away order from the captain made him hold his tongue. within the limits of another system. Utterly care- sensi- The truth was that the professor was just as less of the future, the majos, light-hearted as ever, orderly tive about his comet as the was about Mont- carolled out their favorite songs, just as if they martre, and if the contention between the two had had never quitted the shores of their native land. been allowed to go on unchecked, it is impossible to Happiest of all were Pablo and Nina. Racing quarrel might not have arisen. say what serious through the galleries of the Hive, clambering over equanimity had been When Professor Rosette's the rocks upon the shore, one day skating far away diameter, restored, he said, "Thns gentlemen, the across the frozen ocean, the next fishing in the lake settled; the surface, the volume of my eomet are that was kept liquid by the heat of the lava-torrent, I shall not be satis- but there is more to be done. the two children led a life of perpetual enjoyment. determined fied until, by actual measurement, I have Nor was their recreation allowed to interfere with of gravity at its mass, its density, and the force their studies. Captain Servadac, who in common its surface." with the count really liked them both, conceived "A laborious problem," remarked Count Tima- that the.responsibilities of a parent in some degree scheff. had developed upon him, and took great care in "Laborious or not, it has to be accomplished. superintending their daily lessons, which he suc- I am resolved to find out what my comet weighs." ceeded in making hardly less pleasant than their "Would it not be of some assistance, if we knew sports. of what substance it is composed?" asked the Indulged and loved by all, it was little wonder lieutenant that young Pablo had no longing for the scorching "That is of no moment at all," replied the pro- plains of Andalusia, or that little Nina had lost all fessor; "the problem is independent of it." wish to return with her pet goat to the barren rocks ;

160 AMAZING STORIES of Sardinia. They had now a home in which they "Then an ordinary pair of scales, being under the had nothing to desire. influence of attraction, I suppose, would not answer "Have you no father or mother?" asked Pablo, your purpose," submitted the lieutenant. one day. "And the very kilogram weight you used would "No," she answered. have become lighter," put in the count, deferentially. "No more have I," said the boy, "I used to run "Pray, gentlemen, do not interrupt me," said the along by the aide of the diligences when I was in professor, authoritatively, as if ex cathedra. "I need Spain." no instruction on these points." "I used to look after goats at Madalena," said Procope and Timascheff demurely bowed their Nina; "but it is much nicer here—I am so happy heads. here. I have you for a brother, and everybody is so The professor resumed. "Upon a spring-balance, kind. I am afraid they will spoil us, Pablo," she dependent upon mere tension or flexibility, the at- added, smiling. traction will have no influence.. If I suspend a "Oh, no, Nina; you are too good to be spoiled, weight upon it equivalent to the weight of a kilo- and when I am with you, you make me good too," gram, the index will register the proper weight on said Pablo, gravely. the surface of Gallia. Thus I shall arrive at the July had now arrived. During the month Gallia's difference I want: the "difference between the earth'a advance along its orbit would be reduced to 22,000,- attraction and the comet's. Will you, therefore, have 000 leagues, the distance from the sun at the end the goodness to provide me at once with a spring- being 172,000,000 leagues, about four and a half balance and a tested kilogram?" times as great as the average distance of the earth The audience looked at one another, and then at from the sun. It was traveling now at about the Ben Zoof, who was thoroughly acquainted with all same speed as the earth, which traverses the ecliptic their resources. "We have neither one nor the at a rate of 21,000,000 leagues a month, or 28,800 other," said the orderly. leagues an hour. The professor stamped with vexation. In due time the G2d of April, according to the "I believe old Hakkabut has a spring-balance revised Gallian calendar, dawned; and in punctual on board his tartan," said Ben Zoof, presently. fulfillment of the professor's appointment, a note "Then why didn't you say so before, you idiot?" was delivered to Servadae to say that he was ready, roared the excitable little man. and hoped that day to commence operations for Anxious to pacify him, Servadae assured him calculating the mass and density of his comet, as that every exertion should be made to procure the well as the force of gravity at its surface. instrument, and directed Ben Zoof to go to the Jew A point of far greater interest to Captain Serva- and borrow it. dae and his friends would have been to ascertain "No, stop a moment," he said as Ben Zoof was the nature of the substance of which the comet was moving away on his errand; "perhaps I had better composed, but they felt pledged to render the pro- go with you myself; the old Jew may make a diffi- fessor any aid they could in the researches upon culty about lending us any of his property." which he had set his heart. Without delay, there- "Why should we not all go?" asked the count; fore, they assembled in the central hall, where they "we should see what kind of a life the misanthrope were soon joined by Rosette, who seemed to be in leads on board the Hansa." fairly good temper. The proposal met with general approbation. Be- "Gentlemen," he began, "I propose to-day to en- fore they started, Professor Rosette requested that deavor to complete our observations of the elements one of the men might be ordered to cut him a cubic of my comet. Three matters of investigation are decimeter out of the solid substance of Gallia. "My before us. First, the measure of gravity at its sur- engineer is the man for that," said the count; "he face; this attractive force we know, by the increase will do it well for you if you will give him the pre- of our own muscular force, must of course be con- cise measurement." siderably less than that at the surface of the earth "What! you don't mean," exclaimed the professor, secondly, its mass, that is, the quality of its matter; again going off into a passion, "that you haven't a and thirdly, its density or quantity of matter in a proper measure of length?" unit of its volume. We will proceed, gentlemen, if Ben Zoof was sent off to ransack the stores for you please, to weigh Gallia." the article in question, but no measure was forth- Ben Zoof, who had just entered the hall, caught coming. "Most likely we shall find one on the tar- the professor's last sentence, and without saying a tan," said the orderly. word, went out again and was absent for some "Then let us lose no time in trying," answered minutes. When he returned, he said, "If you want the professor, as he bustled with hasty strides into to weigh this comet of yours, I suppose you want the gallery. a pair of scales; but I have been to look, and I The rest of the party followed, and were soon cannot find a pair anywhere. And what's more," he in the open air upon the rocks that overhung the added mischievously, "you won't get them any- shore. They descended to the level of the frozen where." water and made their way towards the little creek A frown came over the professor's countenance. where the Dobryna and the Hansa lay firmly im- Servadae saw it, and gave his orderly a 3ign that prisoned in their icy bonds. he should desist entirely from his bantering. The temperature was low beyond previous ex- "I require, gentlemen," resumed Rosette, "first perience; but well muffled up in fur, they all en- of all to know by how much the weight of a kilo- dured it without much actual suffering. Their gram here differs from its weight upon the earth; breath issued in vapor, which was at once congealed the attraction, as we have said, being less, the into little crystals upon their whiskers, beards, eye- weight will proportionately be less also." brows, and eyelashes, until their faces, covered with OFF ON A COMET 161 countless snow-white prickles, were truly ludicrous. those which in polar seas cause destruction to so The little professor, most comical of all, resembled many whalers- nothing so much as the cub of an Arctic bear. There was no time now for concerting measures It was eight o'clock in the morning. The sun off-hand to prevent the disaster, for the other mem- was rapidly approaching the zenith; but its disc, bers of the party had already reached the spot where from the extreme remoteness, was proportionately the Havsa lay bound in her icy trammels. A flight dwarfed, its beams being all but destitute of their of steps, recently hewn by Hakkabut himself, gave proper warmth and radiance. The volcano to its access for the present to the gangway, hut it was very summit, and the surrounding rocks, were still evident that some different contrivance would have covered with the unsullied mantle of snow that had to be resorted to when the tartan should be elevated fallen while the atmosphere was still to some extent perhaps to a hundred feet. charged with vapor; but on the north side the snow A thin curl of blue smoke issued from the copper had given place to the cascade of fiery lava, which, funnel that projected above the mass of snow which making its way down the sloping rocks as far as had accumulated upon the deck of the Hansa. The the vaulted opening of the central cavern, fell thence owner was sparing of his fuel, and it was only the perpendicularly into the sea. Above the cavern, 150 non-conducting layer of ice enveloping the tartan feet up the mountain, was a dark hole, above which that rendered the internal temperature endurable. the stream of lava made a bifurcation in its course. "Hi! old Nebuchadnezzar, where are you?" From this hole projected the tube of an astronomer's shouted Ben Zoof, at the full strength of his lungs. telescope; it was the opening of Palmyrin Rosette's At the sound of his voice, the cabin door opened, observatory. and the Jew's head and shoulders protruded onto Sea "and land seemed blended into one dreary the deck. whiteness, to which the pale blue sky offered scarce- ly any contrast. The shore was indented with the CHAPTER VI marks of many footsteps left by the colonists either MONEY AT A PREMIUM on their way to collect ice for drinking purposes, or as the result of their skating expeditions; the "HO'S there? I have nothing here for any- edges of the skates had cut out a labyrinth of curves one. Go away;" Such was the inhospit- complicated as the figures traced by aquatic insects "W:able greeting with which Isaac Hakkabut upon the surface of a pool. received his visitors. Across the quarter of a mile level ground that "Hakkabut! do you take us for thieves?" asked lay between the mountain and the creek, a series Servadac, in tones of stern displeasure. of footprints, frozen hard into the snow, marked the "Oh, your Excellency, my lord, I did not know course taken by Isaac Hakkabut on his last return that it was you," whined the Jew, but without from Nina's Hive. emerging any farther from his cabin. On approaching the creek, Lieutenant Procope "Now, old Hakkabut, come out of your shell! drew his companions' attention to the elevation of Come and show the governor proper respect, when the Dobryna's and Hansa's waterline, both vessels he gives you the honor of his company," cried Een being now some fifteen feet above the level of the Zoof, who by this time had clambered up on the sea. deck. "What a strange phenomenon!" exclaimed the After considerable hesitation, but still keeping captain. his hold upon the cabin-door, the Jew made up his "It makes me very uneasy," rejoined the lieu- mind to step outside. "What do you want?" he in- tenant; "in shallow places like this, as the crust of quired, timorously. ice thickens, it forces everything upwards with ir- "I want a word with you," said Servadac, "but resistible force." I do not want to stand talking out here in the "But surely this process of congelation must have cold." a limit 1" said the count. Followed by the rest of the party, he proceeded to "But who can say what that limit will be? Re- mount the steps. The Jew trembled from head to member that we have not yet reached our maximum foot. "But I cannot let you into my cabin. I am

of cold," replied Procope. a poor man ; I have nothing to give you," he moaned "Indeed, I hope not!" exclaimed the professor; piteously. "where would be the use of our traveling 200,000,- "Here he is!" laughed Ben Zoof contemptuously; 000 leagues from the sun, if we are only to ex- "he is beginning his chapter of lamentations over perience the same temperature as we should find again. But standing out here will never do. Out at the poles of the earth?" of the way, old Hakkabut, I say! out of the way!" "Fortunately for us, however, professor," said and, without more ado, he thrust the astonished Jew the lieutenant, with a smile, "the temperature of to one side and opened the door of the cabin. the remotest space never descends beyond 70° C. Servadac, however, declined to enter until he had below zero." taken the pains to explain to the owner of the "And a3 long as there is no wind," added Serva- tartan that he had no intention of laying violent dac, "we may pass comfortably through the winter, hands upon his property, and that if the time should without a single attack of catarrh." ever come that his cargo was in requisition for the Lieutenant Procope proceeded to impart to the common use, he should receive a proper price for count his anxiety about the situation of his yacht. his goods, the same as he would in Europe. He pointed out that by the constant superposition of "Europe, indeed!" muttered the Jew maliciously new deposits of ice, the vessel would be elevated to between his teeth. "European prices will not do for a great height, and consequently in the event of a me. I must have Gallian prices—and of my own thaw, it must be exposed to a calamity similar to fixing too!" :

162 AMAZING STORIES

So large a portion of the vessel had been appro- Isaac fairly shrieked aloud. "God of Israel!" he priated to the cargo that the space reserved for ejaculated, "sell my spring-balance? Would you the cabin was of most meager dimensions. In one deprive me of one of the most indispensable of my corner of the compartment stood a small iron stove, means of livelihood? How should I weigh my mer- in which smoldered a bare handful of coals; in an- chandise without my spring-balance—my solitary other was a trestle-board which served as a bed; spring-balance, so delicate and so correct?" two or three stools and a rickety deal table, together The orderly wondered how his master could re- with a few cooking utensils, completed a stock of frain from strangling the old miser upon the spot; furniture which was worthy of its proprietor. but Servadae, rather amused than otherwise, de- On entering the cabin, Ben Zoof's first proceeding termined to try another form of persuasion. "Come, was to throw on the fire a liberal supply of coals, Hakkabut, I see that you are not disposed either to utterly regardless of the groans of poor Isaac, who lend or to sell your balance. What do you say to would almost as soon have parted with his own bones letting us hire it?" as submit to such reckless expenditure of his fuel. The Jew's eyes twinkled with a satisfaction that The perishing temperature of the cabin, however, he was unable to conceal. "But what security would was sufficient justification for the orderly's conduct, you give? The instrument is very valuable;" and and by a little skillful manipulation he soon suc- he looked more cunning than 'ever. ceeded in getting up a tolerable fire. "What is it worth? If it is worth twenty francs, The visitors having taken what seats they could, I will leave a deposit of a hundred. Will that satisfy Hakkabut closed the door, and, like a prisoner you?" awaiting his sentence, stood with folded hands, ex- He shook his head doubtfully. "It is very little; pecting the captain to speak. indeed, it is too little, your Excellency. Consider, it "Listen," said Servadae; "we have come to ask is the only spring-balance in all this new world of a favor." ours; it is worth more, much more. If I take your Imagining that at least half his property was to deposit it must be in gold—all gold. But how much be confiscated, the Jew began to break out into his do you agree to give me for the hire—the hire, one usual formula about being a poor man and having day?" nothing to spare; but Servadae, without heeding "You shall have twenty francs," said Servadae. his complainings, went on : "We are not going to "Oh, it is dirt cheap; but never mind, for one ruin you, you know." day, you shall have it. Deposit in gold money a Hakkabut looked keenly into the captain's face. hundred francs, and twenty francs for the hire." "We have only come to know whether you can The old man folded his hands in meek resignation. lend us a spring-balance." "The fellow knows how to make a good bargain," So far from showing any symptom of relief, the said Servadae, as Isaac, after casting a distrustful old miser exclaimed, with a stare of astonishment, look around, went out of the cabin. as if he had been asked for some thousand francs "Detestable old wretch!" replied the count, full "A spring-balance?" of disgust. "Yes!" echoed the professor, impatiently; "a Hardly a minute elapsed before the Jew was back epring-balance." again, carrying his precious instrument with os- "Haven't you one?" asked Servadae. tentatious care. It was of an ordinary kind. A "To be sure he has !" said Ben Zoof. spring balance, fitted with a hook, held the article Old Isaac stammered and stuttered, hut at last to be weighed; a pointer, revolving on a disc, indi- confessed that perhaps there might be one amongst cated the weight of the article. Professor Rosette the stores. was manifestly right in asserting that such a ma- "Then, surely, you will not object to lend it to chine would register results quite independently of us?" said the captain. any change in the force of attraction. On the earth "Only for one day," added the professor. it would have registered a kilogram as a kilogram; The Jew stammered again, and began to object. here it recorded a different value altogether, as the "It is a very delicate instrument, your Excellency. result of the altered force of gravity. The cold, you know, the cold may do injury to the Gold coinage to- the worth of one hundred and spring; and perhaps you are going to use it to twenty francs was handed over to the Jew, who weigh something very heavy." clutched at the money with unmistakable eager- "Why, old Ephraim, do you suppose we are going ness. The balance was committed to the keeping to weigh a mountain with it?" said Ben Zoof. of Ben Zoof, and the visitors prepared to quit the "Better than that!" cried out the professor, Hansa. triumphantly; "we are going to weigh Gallia with AH at once it occurred to the professor that the it—my comet." balance would be absolutely useless to him, unless he "Merciful Heaven!" shrieked Isaac, feigning con- had the means for ascertaining the precise measure- sternation at the bare suggestion. ment of the unit of the soil of Gallia which he pro- Servadae knew well enough that the Jew was hold- posed to weigh. "Something more yon must lend ing out only for a good bargain, and assured him me," he said, addressing the Jew. that the scale was required for no other purpose "I must have a measure, and I must have £ than to weigh a kilogram, which (considering how kilogram." much lighter everything had become) could not pos- "I have neither of them," answered Isaac. "I sibly put the slightest strain upon the instrument. have neither. I am sorry; I am very sorry." And The Jew still spluttered, and moaned, and hesi- this time the old Jew spoke the truth. He would tated. have been really glad to do another stroke or two "Well, then," said Servadae, "if you do not like to of business upon terms as advantageous as the lend us your scale, do you object to selling it to us?" transaction he had just concluded. "

OFF ON A COMET 163 Palmyrin Rosette scratched his head in per- "Let him alone, Ben Zoof. He will soon come to plexity, glaring round upon his companions as if his senses," said Servadac, quietly. they were personally responsible for his annoyance. When the old Jew had again recovered himself, He muttered something about finding a way out of the captain addressed him. "Now, tell us, what in- his difficulty, and hastily mounted the cabin-ladder. terest do you expect?" The rest followed, but they had hardly reached the Nothing could overcome the Jew's anxiety to the chink of money was heard in the room make another good bargain. He began: "Money is deck when " below. Hakkabut was locking away the gold in one scarce, very scarce, you know of the drawers. "No more of this!" shouted Servadac. "What in- "Back again, down the ladder, scrambled the little terest, I say, what interest do you ask?" professor, and before the Jew was aware of his Faltering and undecided still, the Jew went on. presence he had seized him by the tail of his slouchy "Very scarce, you know. Ten francs a day, I think, -" overcoat. "Some of. your money! I must have would not be unreasonable, considering money!" he said. The count had no patience to allow him to finish "Money!" gasped Hakkabut; "I have no money." what he was about to say. He flung down notes to He was pale with fright, and hardly knew what he the value of several rubles. With a greediness that was saying. could not be concealed, Hakkabut grasped them all. cunning Israelite "Falsehood!" roared Rosette. "Do you think I Paper, indeed, they were ; but the cannot see?" And peering down into the drawer knew that they would in any case be security far which the Jew was vainly trying to close, he cried, beyond the value of his cash. He was making some "Heaps of money! 'French money! Five-franc eighteen hundred per cent, interest, and accordingly pieces! the very thing I want! I must have them!" chuckled within himself at his unexpected stroke of

The captain and his friends, who had returned business. . to the cabin looked on with mingled amusement and The professor pocketed his French coins with a bewilderment. satisfaction far more demonstrative. "Gentlemen," "They are mine!" shrieked Hakkabut. he said, "with these franc pieces I obtain the means kilo- "I will have them!" shouted the professor. of determining accurately both a meter and a "You shall kill me first!" bellowed the Jew. gram." "No, but I must!" persisted the professor again. Servadac to interefere. It was manifestly time for CHAPTER VII "My dear professor," he said, smiling, "allow me to

settle this little matter for you." . GALLIA WEIGHED "Ah, your Excellency," moaned the agitated Jew, — visitors "protect me! I am but a poor man— QUARTER of an hour later, the to "None of that Hakkabut. Hold your tongue." the Hansa had reassembled in the common And turning to Rosette, the captain said, "If, sir, I A hall of Nina's Hive. understand right, you require some silver five-franc "Now, gentlemen, we can proceed," said the pro- pieces for your operation?" fessor. "May I request that this table may be "Forty," said Rosette, surily. cleared?" "Two hundred francs!" whined Hakkabut. Ben Zoof removed the various articles that were "Silence!" cried the captain. lying on the table, and the coins which had just "I must have more than that," the professor con- been borrowed from the Jew were placed upon it in tinued. "I want ten two-franc pieces, and twenty three piles, according to their value. "Since none of you ha If-francs." The professor commenced. "Let me see," said Servadac, "how much is that gentlemen, at the time of the shock, took the pre- or a kilo- in all? Two hundred and thirty francs, is it not?" caution to save either a meter measure since both these "I dare say it is," answered the professor. gram weight from the earth, and on which "Count, may I ask you," continued Servadac, "to articles are necessary for the calculation be security to the Jew for this loan to the pro- we are engaged, I have been obliged to devise means fessor?" of my own to replace them." "Loan!" cried the Jew, "do you mean only a This exordium delivered, he paused and seemed loan?" to watch its effect upon his audience. But they were "Silence!" again shouted the captain. too well acquainted with the professor's temper to Count Timascheff, expressing his regret that his make any attempt to exonerate themselves from the purse contained only paper money, begged to place rebuke of carelessness, and submitted silently to the it at Captain Servadae's disposal. implied reproach. "No paper, no paper!" exclaimed Isaac. "Paper "I have taken pains," he continued, "to satisfy has no currency in Gallia." myself that therse coins are in proper condition for "About as much as silver," coolly retorted the my purpose. I find them unworn and unchipped; count. indeed, they are almost new. They have been they are "I am a poor man," began the Jew. hoarded instead of circulated; accordingly, obtaining the "Now, Hakkabut, stop these miserable lamenta- fit to be utilized for my purpose of terrestrial meter." tions of yours, once for all. Hand us over two hun- precise length of a the dred and thirty francs in silver money, or we will Een Zoof looked on in perplexity, regarding curiosity as he would proceed to help ourselves." lecturer with much the same performances of a traveling Isaac began to yell with all his might: "Thieves! have watched the

!" Montmartre ; but Servadac thieves mountebank at a fair in already divined the pro- In a moment Een Zoof's hand was clasped tightly and his two friends had !" They knew that French coinage over his mouth. "Stop that howling, Belshazaar fessor's meaning. "

164 AMAZING STORIES is all decimal, the franc being the standard of which needle oscillated, and stopped. "Eead it off!" he the other coins, whether gold, silver, or copper, are said. multiples or measures; they knew, too, that the The weight registered was one hundred and caliber or diameter of each piece of money is thirty-three grains. rigorously determined by law, and that the diame- "There, gentlemen, one hundred and thirty- ters of the silver coins representing five francs, three grams! Less than one-seventh of a kilo- two francs, and fifty centimes measure thirty-seven, gram! You see, consequently, that the force of twenty-seven, and eighteen millimeters respectively; gravity here on Gallia is not one-seventh of what and they accordingly guessed that Professor Eosette it is upon the earth I" had conceived the plan of placing such a number of "Interesting!" cried Servadac, "most interesting! these coins in juxtaposition that the length of their But let us go and compute the mass." united diameters should measure exactly the thou- "No, captain, the density first," said Rosette. sand millimeters that make up the terrestrial meter. "Certainly," said the lieutenant; "for as we al- The measurement thus obtained was made by ready know the volume, we can determine the mass means of a pair of compasses divided accurately into as soon as we have ascertained the density." ten equal portions, or decimeters, each of course The professor took up the cube of rock. "You 3.93 inches long. A rod was then cut of this exact know what this is," he went on to say. "You know, length and given to the engineer of the Dobryna-, gentlemen, that this block is a cube hewn from the who was directed to cut out of the solid rock the substance of which everywhere, all throughout your cubic decimeter required by the professor. voyage of circumnavigation, you found Gallia to The next business was to obtain the precise be composed—a substance to which your geological weight of a kilogram. This was by no means a diffi- attainments did not suffice to assign a name." cult matter. Not only the diameters, but also the "Our curiosity will be gratified," said Servadac, weights, of the French coins are rigidly determined "if you will enlighten our ignorance." by law, and as the silver five-franc pieces always But Rosette did not take the slightest notice of weigh exactly twenty-five grams, the united weight the interruption. of forty of these coins is known to amount to one "A substance it is which no doubt constitutes the kilogram. sole material of the comet, extending from its sur-

"Oh!" cried Ben Zoof : "to be able to do all this, face to its innermost depths. The probability is that I see you must be rich as well as learned." it would be so; your experience confirms that prob- With a good-natured laugh at the orderly's re- ability: you have found no trace of any other sub- mark, the meeting adjourned for a few hours. By stance. Of this rock here is a solid decimeter; let the appointed time the engineer had finished his us get at its weight, and we shall have the key which task, and with all due care had prepared a cubic will unlock the problem of the whole weight of decimeter of the material of the comet. Gallia. We have demonstrated that the force of "Now, gentlemen," said Professor Eosette, "we attraction here is only one-seventh of what it is are in a position to complete our calculation ; we can upon the earth, and shall consequently have to now arrive at Gallia's attraction, density, and multiply the apparent weight of our cube by seven, mass." in order to ascertain its proper weight. Do you Everyone gave him complete attention. understand me, goggle-eyes?" "Before I proceed," he resumed, "I must recall This was addressed to Ben Zoof, who was staring to your minds Newton's general law, 'that the at- hard at him. "No!" said Ben Zoof. traction of two bodies is directly proportional to "I thought not; it is of no use waiting for your the product of their masses, and inversely propor- puzzle-brains to make it out. I must talk to those tional to the square of their distances." who ran. understand."

"Yes," said Servadac; "we remember that." The professor took the cube, and, on attaching it "Well, then," continued the professor, "keep it in to the hook of the steelyard, found that its apparent mind for a few minutes now. Look here! In this weight was one kilogram and four hundred and bag are forty five-franc pieces—altogether they thirty grams. weigh exactly a kilogram; by which I mean if we "Here it is, gentlemen; one kilogram, four hun- were on the earth, and if I were to hang the bag on dred and thirty grams. Multiply that by seven; the the hook of the steelyard, the indicator on the dial product is, as nearly as possible, ten kilograms. would register one kilogram. This is clear enough, What, therefore, is our conclusion? Why, that the I suppose?" density of Gallia is just about double the density As he spoke the professor designedly kept his of the earth, which we know is only five kilograms eyes fixed upon Ben Zoof. He was avowedly fol- to a cubic decimeter. Had it not been for this lowing the example of Arago, who was accustomed greater density, the attraction of Gallia would oniy always in lecturing to watch the countenance of the have been one-fifteenth instead of one-seventh of the least intelligent of his audience, and when he felt terrestrial attraction." that he had made his meaning clear to him, he con- The professor could not refrain from exhibiting cluded that he must have succeeded with all the his gratification that, however inferior in volume, rest. In this case, however, it was technical ignor- in density, at least, his comet had the advantage ance, rather than any lack of intelligence, that justi- over the earth. fied the selection of the orderly for this special at- Nothing further now remained than to apply the tention. Investigations thus finished to the determining of Satisfied with his scrutiny of Ben Zoofs face, the the mass or weight. This was a matter of little professor went on. "And now, gentlemen, we have labor. to see what these coins weigh here upon Gallia." "Let me see," said the captain; "what is the force He suspended the money bag to the hook; the of gravity upon the various i ;

OFF ON A COMET 165 reply, "that they are of no "You can't mean, Servadac, that you have for- was the captain's cool gotten that? But you always were a disappointing use whatever." pupil." CHAPTER VIII The captain could not help himself : he was forced to confess that his memory had failed him. JUPITER SOMEWHAT CLOSE "Well, then," said the professor, "I must remind as to the time the comet would take you. Taking the attraction of the earth as 1, that EXCEPT to revolve round the sun, it must be confessed on Mercury is 1.15, on Venus it is .92, on Mars .5, that all the professor's calculations had com- and on Jupiter 2.45; on the moon the attraction is paratively little interest for anyone but himself, and .16, whilst on the surface of the sun a terrestrial he was consequently left very much to pursue his kilogram would weigh 28 kilograms." studies in solitude. "Therefore, if a man upon the surface of the sun The following day was the 1st of August, or ac- were to fall down, he would have considerable diffi- cording to Rosette, the 63rd of April. In the course culty in getting up again. A cannon ball, too, would of this month Gallia would travel 16,500,000 leagues, only fly a few yards," said Lieutenant Procope. attaining at the end a distance of 197,000,000 jolly battle-field for cowards!" exclaimed Ben "A leagues from the sun. This would leave 81,000,000 Zoof. leagues more to be traversed before reaching the "Not so jolly, Ben Zoof, as you fancy," said his aphelion of the 15th of January, after which it "the cowards would be too heavy to run master; would begin once more to approach the sun. away." But meanwhile, a marvelous world, never before that, as the small- Ben Zoof ventured the remark so close within the range of human vision, was re- to its inhabitants such an ness of Gallia secured vealing itself. No wonder that Palmyrin Rosette increase of strength and agility, he was almost cared so little to quit his observatory ; for through- sorry that it was not a little smaller still. out those calm, clear Gallian nights, when the book "Though it could not have been very much smaller of the firmament lay open before him, he could revel the professor. anyhow," he added, looking slyly at in a spectacle which no previous astronomer had "Idiot!" exclaimed Rosette. "Your head is too ever been permitted to enjoy. light already; a puff of wind would blow it away." The glorious orb that was becoming so conspicu- "I must take care of my head, then, and hold it ous an object was none other than the planet Jupi- on," replied the irrepressible orderly. ter, the largest of all the bodies existing within the Unable to get the last word, the professor was influence of solar attraction. During the seven about to retire, when Servadac detained him. months that had elapsed since its collision with the 'Termit me to ask you one more question," he earth, the comet had been continuously approach- planet, until said. "Can you tell me what is the nature of the ing the the distance between them was 61,000,000 leagues, this soil of Gallia?" scarcely more than and would go on diminishing until the 15th of October. "Yes, I can answer that. And in this matter I perfectly cer- do not think your impertinent orderly will venture Under these circumstances, was it danger could accrue? not Gallia, to put Montmartre in the comparison. This soil is of tain that no Was into such close proximity a substance not unknown upon the earth." And when its pathway led it planet, running a risk of being speaking very slowly, the professor said: "It con- to this enormous attracted within its influence? Might not that in- tains 70 per cent, df tellurium, and 30 per cent, of fluence be altogether disastrous? The professor, it gold." his estimate of the duration of his comet's Servadac uttered an exclamation of surprise. is true, in revolution, had represented that he had made all "And the average of the specific gravities of these proper allowances for any perturbations that would two substances is 10, precisely the number that rep- be caused either by Jupiter, by Saturn, or by Mars resents Gallia's density." but what if there were any errors in his calcula- comet of gold"!" ejaculated the captain. "A tions? what if there should be any elements of dis- Mau- "Yes; a realization of what the illustrious turbance on which he had not reckoned? probable," replied the pertuis has already deemed Speculations of this kind became more and more astronomer. frequent, and Lieutenant Procope pointed out that attached to "If Gallia, then, should ever become the danger incurred might be of a fourfold char- bring about an important the earth, might it not acter: first, that the comet, being irresistibly at- inquired the revolution in all monetary affairs?" tracted, might be drawn on to the very surface of count. the planet, and there annihilated ; secondly, that as "No doubt about it!" said Rosette, with manifest the result of being brought under that attraction, world with about satisfaction. "It would supply the it might be transformed into a satellite, or even a francs." 246,000 trillions of sub-satellite, of that mighty world ; thirdly, that it "Ifc would make gold about as cheap as dirt, I might be diverted into a new orbit, whieh would

suppose," said Servadac. never be coincident with the ecliptic ; or lastly, its The last observation, however, was entirely lost course might be so retarded that it would only reach upon the professor, who had left the hall with an the ecliptic too late to permit any junction with the air almost majestic, and was already on his way to earth. The occurrence of any one of these contin- the observatory. gencies would be fatal to their hopes of reunion "And what, I wonder, is the use of all these big with the globe, from which they had been so figures?' 1 said Ben Zoof to his master, when next strangely severed. day they were alone together. To Rosette, who, without family ties which he "That's just the charm of them, my good fellow," had never found leisure or inclination to contract. ;

166 AMAZING STORIES had no shadow of desire to return to the earth, it utes; the second takes 3 days, 13 hours, 14 minutes; would be only the first of these probabilities that the third, 7 days, 3 hours, 42 minutes; whilst the could give him any concern. Total annihilation largest of all takes but 16 days, 16 hours, 32 min- might not accord with his views, but he would be utes. The most remote revolves round the planet at quite content for Gallia to miss its mark with re- a distance of 1,192,820 miles. gard to the earth, indifferent whether it revolved as "They have been enlisted into the service of a new satellite around Jupiter, or whether it wend- science," said Proeope. "It is by their movements ed its course through the untraversed regions of that the velocity of light has been calculated; and the milky way. The rest of the community, however, they have been made available for the determina- by no means sympathized with the professor's senti- tion of terrestrial longitudes." ments, and the following month was a period pf "It must be a wonderful sight," said the captain. considerable doubt and anxiety. "Yes," answered Proeope. "I often think Jupiter On the 1st of September the distance between is like a prodigious clock with four hands." Gallia and Jupiter was precisely the same as the "I only hope that we are not destined to make a mean distance between the earth and the sun; on the fifth hand," answered Servadac. 16th, the distance was further reduced to 26,000,- Such was the style of the conversation that was 000 leagues. The planet began to assume enormous day by day reiterated during the whole month of dimensions, and it almost seemed as if the comet auapeaae. Whatever topic might be started, it had already been deflected from its elliptical orbit, seemed soon to settle down upon the huge orb that and was rushing on in a straight line towards the was looming upon them with such threatening as- overwhelming luminary. pect. they character this The more contemplated the of "The more remote that these planets are from the impressed gigantic planet, the more they became sun," said Proeope, "the more venerable and ad- with the likelihood serious perturbation in of a vanced in formation are they found to be. Neptune, course. The diameter of Jupiter is their own 85, situated 2,746,271,000 miles from the sun, issued great as that of 390 miles, nearly eleven times as from the solar nebulosity, thousands of millions of volume is and its the earth; its 1,387 times, mass centuries back. Uranus, revolving 1,753,851,000 300 times greater; and although the mean density miles from the center of the planetary system, is of that of water (whence it is only about a third of an age amounting to many hundred millions of cen- superficies of Jupiter is has been supposed that the turies. Jupiter, the colossal planet, gravitating at other proportions were large enough liquid), yet its a distance of 475,593,000 miles, may be reckoned as to warrant the apprehension that important dis- 70,000,000 centuries old. Mars has existed for 1,- result proximity. turbances might from its 000,000,000 years at a distance of 139,212,000 miles. lieutenant," said Serva- "I forget my astronomy, The earth, 91,430,000 miles from the sun, quitted can about this formidable dac. "Tell me ail you his burning bosom 100,000,000 years ago. Venus, neighbor." revolving now 66,131,000 miles away, may be as- lieutenant refreshed his memory by The having signed the age of 50,000,000 years at least; and reference to Flamm air ion's Rvcits de I'Infini, of Mercury, nearest of all, and youngest of all, has translation, and some other which he had a Russian been revolving at a distance of .'15,393,000 miles for books, proceeded to recapitulate that Jupiter ac- the space of 10,000,000 years—the same time as the the sun in 4,332 complishes its revolution round moon has been evolved from the earth." and 2 minutes; that it travels at days, 14 houi-s, Servadac listened attentively. He was at a loss the rate of 467 miles a minute along an orbit meas- what to say ; and the only reply he made to the re- uring 2,976 millions of miles ; and that its rotation cital of this novel theory was to the effect that, if on its axis occupies only 9 hours and 55 minutes. it were true, he would prefer being captured by the earth's "His daya, then, are shorter than Mercury than by Jupiter, for Mercury, being so captain. days?" interrupted the much the younger, would probably prove the less "Considerably," answered the lieutenant, who imperative and self-willed master. describe the displacement of a point went on to how It was on the 1st of September that the comet had the twenty-seven times as at equator of Jupiter was crossed the orbit of Jupiter, and on the 1st of Oc- earth, the polar compres- rapid as on the causing tober the two bodies were calculated to be at their the axis, being sion to be about 2,378 miles; how minimum separation. No direct shock, however, of its orbit, nearly perpendicular to the plane could be apprehended; the demonstration was suf- nights be nearly of the caused the days and to ficiently complete that the orbit of Gallia did not invariable; and same length, and the seasons to be coincide with that of the planet, the orbit of Jupiter the how the amount of light and heat received by being inclined at any angle of 1° 19' to the orbit of planet is only a twenty-fifth part of that received by the earth, with which that of Gallia was, no doubt, the earth, the average distance from the sun being coincident.

475,693,000 miles. As the month of September verged towards its "And how about these satellites? Sometimes, I close, Jupiter began to wear an aspect that must suppose, Jupiter has the benefit of four moons all have excited the admiration of the most ignorant or shining at once?" asked Servadac. the most indifferent observer. Its salient points Of the satellites, Lieutenant Proeope went on to were illumined with novel and radiant tints, and say that one is rather smaller than our own moon the solar rays, reflected from its disc, glowed with a that another moves round its primary at an inter- mingled softness and intensity upon Gallia, so that val about equal to the moon's distance from our- Nerina had to pale her beauty. selves; but that they all revolve in considerably less Who could wonder that Rosette, enthusiast as he time: the first takes only 1 day, 18 hours, 27 min- was, should be irremovable from his observatory! "

OFF ON A COMET 167

Who could expect otherwise than that, with the The belts all parallel to Jupiter's equator were very prospect before him of viewing the giant among distinct in their markings. Those immediately planets, ten times nearer than any mortal eye had north and south of the equator were a dusky hue; ever done, he should have begrudged every moment those toward the poles were alternately dark and that distracted his attention? light; the intervening spaces of. the planet's super- Meanwhile, aa Jupiter grew large, the sun grew ficies, between edge and edge, being intensely small. bright. The belts themselves were occasionally From its increased remoteness the diameter of broken by spots, which the records of astronomy the sun's disc was diminished to 5' 46". describe as varying both in form and in extent. And what increased interest began to be associa- The physiology of belts and spots alike was be- ted with the satellites! They were visible to the yond the astronomer's power to ascertain ; and even naked eye ! Was it not a new record in the annals if he should be destined once again to take his place of science? in an astronomical congress on the earth, he would Although it is acknowledged that they are not be just as incapable as ever of determining whether ordinarily visible on earth without the aid of a or no they owed their existence to the external ac- somewhat powerful telescope, it has been asserted cumulation of vapor, or to some internal agency. that a favored few, endued with extraordinary It would not be Professor Rosette's lot to enlighten powers of vision, have been able to identify them his brother savants to any great degree as to the with an unassisted eye; but here, at least, in Nina's mysteries that are associated with this, which must Hive were many rivals, for everyone could so far ever rank as one of the most magnificent amongst distinguish them one from the other as to describe the heavenly orbs. them by their colors. The first was of a dull white As the comet approached the critical point of its shade; the second Was blue; the third was white career it cannot be denied that there was an un- and brilliant; the fourth was orange, at times ap- acknowledged consciousness of alarm. Mutually re- proaching to a red. It was further observed that served, though ever courteous, the count and the Jupiter itself was almost void of scintillation. captain were secretly drawn together by the pros-

Rosette, in his absorbing interest for the glowing pect of a common danger ; and as their return to glories of the planet, seemed to be beguiled into the earth appeared to them to become more and comparative forgetfulness of the charms of his more dubious, they abandoned their views of nar- comet; but no astronomical enthusiasm of the pro- row isolation, and tried to embrace the wider fessor could quite allay the general apprehension philosophy that acknowledges the credibility of a that some serious collision might be impending. habitable universe. Time passed on. There was nothing to justify ap- But no philosophy could be proof against the prehension. The question was continually being common instincts of their humanity; their hearts, asked, "What does the professor really think?" their hopes, were set upon their natural home; no "Our friend the professor," said Servadac, "is speculation, no science, no experience, could induce not likely to tell us very much; but we may feel them to give up their fond and sanguine anticipa- pretty certain of one thing: he would not keep us tion that once again they were to come in contact long in the dark, if he thought we were not going with the earth. back to the earth again. The greatest satisfaction "Only let us escape Jupiter," said ' Lieutenant inform that had he could have would be to us we Procope, repeatedly, "and we are free from earth for ever." parted from the anxiety." "I trust from my very soul," said the count, "that "But would not Saturn lie ahead?" asked Serva- his prognostications are correct." dac and the count in one breath. "The more I see of him, and the more I listen to "No!" said Procope; "the orbit of Saturn is re- him," replied Servadac, "the more I become con- mote, and does not come athwart our path. Jupiter vinced that his calculations are based on a solid is our sole hindrance. Of Jupiter we must say, as foundation, and will prove correct to the minutest William Tell said, 'Once through the ominous pass particular." and all is well.' Ben Zoof here interrupted the conversation. "I The 15th of October came, the date of the nearest have something on my mind," he said. approximation of the comet to the planet. They "Something on your mind? Out with it!" said were only 31,000,000 miles apart. What would now the captain. transpire? Would Galiia be diverted from its "That telescope!" said the orderly; "it strikes me proper way? or would it hold the course that the that that telescope which the old professor keeps astronomer had predicted? pointed up at yonder big sun is bringing it down Early next morning the captain ventured straight upon us." to take the lieutenant the The captain laughed heartily. the count and up to observatory. The professor was in the worst of tempers. "Laugh, captain, if you like; but I feel disposed to break the old telescope into atoms." That was enough. It was enough, without a word, "Ben Zoof," said Servadac, his laughter ex- to indicate the course which events had taken. The changed for a look of stern displeasure, "touch that comet was pursuing an unaltered way. telescope, and you shall swing for it!" The astronomer, correct in his prognostications, The orderly looked astonished. ought to have been the most proud and contented of "I am governor here," said Servadac. philosophers; his pride and contentment were both Ben Zoof knew what his master meant, and to overshadowed by the certainty that the career of him his master's wish was law. his comet was destined to be so transient, and that The interval between the comet and Jupiter was, it must inevitably once again come into collision by the 1st of October, reduced to 43,000,000 mites. with the earth. !

168 AMAZING STORIES

CHAPTER IX chaser. Mutual interest and necessity thus con- spired to draw Hakkabut and the captain MAlfkCI' PRICES IN GALLIA together. Often and often had Isaac gloated in his solitude LL right!" said Servadac, convinced by the over the prospect of first selling a portion of his professor's ill humor that the danger was merchandise for all the gold and silver in the colony. "A; "no doubt we are in for a two years' His recent usurious transaction had whetted his , but fifteen months more will take U3 back appetite. He would next part with some more of his to the earth!" cargo for all the paper money they coud give him; "And we shall see Montmartre again!" exclaimed but still he should have goods left, and they would Ben Zoof, in excited tones that betrayed his delight want these. Yes, they should have these, too, for in the anticipation. promissory notes. Notes would hold good when they To use a nautical expression, they had safely got back again to the earth; bills from his Ex- "rounded the point," and they had to be congratulat- cellency the governor would be good bills; any- ed on their successful navigation; for if, under the how there would be the sheriff. By the God of influence of Jupiter's attraction, the comet had been Israel ! he would get good prices, and he would get retarded for a single hour, in that hour the earth fine interest would have already traveled 2,500,000 miles from Although he did not know it, he was proposing the point where contact would ensue, and many cen- to follow the practice of the Gauls of old, who ad- turies would elapse before such a coincidence would vanced money on bills for payment in a future life. possibly again occur. Hakkabut's "future life," however, was not many On the 1st of November Gallia and Jupiter were months in advance of the present. 40,000,000 miles apart. It was little more than ten Still Hakkabut hesitated to make the first ad- weeks to the 15th of January, when the comet would vance, and it was accordingly with much satisfac- begin to reapproach the sun. Though light and tion that he hailed Captain Servadac's appearance heat were now reduced to a twenty-fifth part of on board the Hansa. their terrestrial intensity, so that a perpetual twi- "Hakkabut," said the captain, plunging without light seemed to have settled over Gallia, yet the further preface into business, "we want some coffee, population felt cheered even by the little that was some tobacco, and other things. I have come to-day left, and buoyed up by the hope that they should to order them, to settle the price, and to-morrow ultimately regain their proper position with regard Ben Zoof shall fetch the goods away." to the great luminary, of which the temperature "Merciful heavens!" the Jew began to whine; but has been estimated as not less than 5,000,000 Servadac cut him short. degrees. "None of that miserable howling! Business! I Of the anxiety endured during the last two am come to buy your goods. I shall pay for them." months Isaac Hakkabut had known nothing. Since "Ah yes, your Excellency," whispered the Jew, the day he had done his lucky stroke of business his voice trembling like a street beggar. "Don't he had never left the tartan; and after Ben Zoof, impose on me. I am poor; I am nearly ruined al- on the following day, had returned the steelyard ready." and borrowed cash, receiving back the paper roubles "Cease your wretched whining!" cried Servadac. deposited, all communication between the Jew and "I have told you once, I shall pay for all I buy." Nina's Hive had ceased. In the course of the few "Ready money?" asked Hakkabut. minute's conversation which Ben Zoof had held with "Yes, ready money. What makes you ask?" said him, he had mentioned that he knew the whole soil the captain, curious to hear what the Jew would of Gallia was made of gold; but the old man, guess- say. ing that the orderly was only laughing at him as "Well, you see—you see, your Excellency," stam- usual, paid no attention to the remark, and only mered out the Jew, "to give credit to one wouldn't meditated upon the means he could devise to get do, unless I gave credit to another. You are solvent every bit of the money in the new world into his own —I mean honorable, and his lordship the count is " possession. No one grieved over the life of solitude honorable; but maybe—maybe which Hakkabut persisted in leading. Ben Zoof "Well?" said Servadac, waiting, but inclined to giggled heartily, as he repeatedly observed "it was kick the old rascal out of his sight. astonishing how they reconciled themselves to his "I shouldn't like to give credit," he repeated. absence." "I have not asked for credit. I have told you, The time came, however, when various circum- you shall have ready money." stances prompted him to think he must renew his "Very good, your Excellency. But how will you intercourse with the inhabitants of the Hive. Some pay me?" of his goods were beginning to spoil, and he felt "Pay you? Why, we shall pay you in gold and the necessity of turning them into money, if he silver and copper, while our money lasts, and when would not be a loser; he hoped, moreover, that the that is gone we shall pay you in bank notes." scarcity of his commodities would secure very. high "Oh, no paper, no paper!" groaned out the Jew, prices. relapsing into his accustomed whine. It happened, just about this same time, that Ben "Nonsense, man!" cried Servadac. Zoof had been calling his master's attention to the "No paper!" reiterated Hakkabut. fact that some of their most necessary provisions "Why not? Surely you can trust the banks of would soon be running short, and that their stock England, France, and Russia." of coffee, sugar, and tobacco would want replenish- "Ah no! I must have gold. Nothing so safe as ing. Servadac's mind, the cargo gold." of course, turned to , ( on board the Hansa, and he resolved, according to "Well then," said the captain, not wanting to lose his promise, to apply to the Jew and become a pur- his temper, "you shall have it your own way; we a

OFF ON A COMET 169 have plenty of gold for the present. We will leave never been unfastened. The captain, however, had the bank notes for by and by." The Jew's counten- his own special object in view, and would not be ance brightened, and Servadac, repeating that he diverted. The Jew fetched his spring balance, and should again come the next day, was about to quit a packet of the tobacco was suspended to it. the vessel. "Merciful heavens!" screamed Isaac. "One moment, your Excellency," said Hakkabut, The index registered only 133 grams! sidling up with a hypocritical smile; "I suppose I "You see, Hakkabut, I was right. I was per- am to fix my own prices." fectly Justified in having your goods put to the "You will, of course, charge ordinary prices- test," said Servadac, quite seriously. proper market prices; European prices, I mean." "But—but, your Excellency " stammered out "Merciful heavens!" shrieked the old man, "you the bewildered man. rob me of my rights; you defraud me of my "You will, of course, make up the deficiency," the privilege. The monopoly of the market belongs to captain continued, not noticing the interruption. me. It is the custom; it is my right; it is my "Oh, my lord, let me say " began Isaac again. privilege to fix my own prices." "Come, come, old Caiaphas, do you hear? You Servadac made him understand that he had no are to make up the deficiency," exclaimed Ben Zoof. intention of his " swerving from decision. "Ah, yes, yes ; but "Merciful heavens!" again howled the Jew, "it The unfortunate Israelite tried hard to speak, but is sheer ruin. The time of monopoly is the time his agitation prevented him. He understood well for profit; it is the time for speculation." enough the cause of the phenomenon, but he was "The very thing, Hakkabut, that I am anxious to overpowered by the conviction that the "cursed Gen- prevent. Just stop now, and think a minute. You tiles" wanted to cheat him. He deeply regretted that seem to forget rights my ; you are forgetting that, he had not a pair of common scales on board. if I please, I can confiscate all your cargo for the "Come, I say, old Jedediah, you are a long while common use. You ought to think yourself lucky in making up what's short," said Ben Zoof, while the getting any price at all. Be contented with Euro- Jew was still stammering on. pean prices will get no more. I ; you am not going As soon as he recovered his power of articulation, to waste my breath on you. I will come again to- Isaac began to pour out a medley of lamentations morrow;" and, without allowing Hakkabut time to and petitions for mercy. The captain was inexor- renew his lamentations, Servadac went away. able. "Very sorry, you know, Hakkabut. It is not All rest of the the day the Jew was muttering my fault that the packet is short weight; but I bitter curses against the thieves of Gentiles in gen- cannot pay for a kilogram unless I have a kilogram." eral, and the governor of Gallia in particular, who Hakkabut pleaded for some consideration. were robbing him of his just profits, by binding "A bargain is a bargain," said Servadac. "You him down to a maximum price for his goods, just must complete your contract." as if it were a time of revolution in the state. But And, moaning and groaning, the miserable man he would be even with them yet; he would have it was driven to make up the full weight as registered all out of them: he would make European prices by his own scale. He had to repeat the process pay, after all. He had a plan—he knew how ; and he with the sugar and coffee: for every kilogram he chuckled to himself and grinned maliciously. had to weigh seven. Ben Zoof and the Russians True to his word, the captain next morning ar- jeered him most unmercifully. rived at the tartan. He was accompanied by Ben "I say, old Mordecai, wouldn't you rather give Zoof and two Russian sailors. "Good-morning, old your goods away, than sell them at this rate? I Eleazar; we have come to do our little bit of friend- would." ly business with you, you know," was Ben. Zoof's "I say, old Pilate, a monopoly isn't always a good greeting. thing, is it?" "What do you want to-day?" asked the Jew. "I say, old Sepharvaim, what a flourishing trade "To-day we want coffee, and we want sugar, and you're driving!" we want tobacco. We must have ten kilograms of Meanwhile seventy kilograms of each of the each. Take care they are all good; all first rate. articles required were weighed, and the Jew for I am commissariat officer, and I am responsible." each seventy had to take the price of tern "I thought you were the governor's aide-de- All along Captain Servadac had been acting only camp," said Hakkabut. in jest. Aware that old Isaac was an utter hypocrite, "So I am, on state occasions; but to-day, I tell he had no compunction in turning a business trans- you. I am superintendent of the commissariat de- action with" him into an occasion for a hit of fun. partment.. Now, look sharp!" But the joke at an end he took care that the Hakkabut hereupon descended into the hold of Jew was properly paid all his legitimate due. the tartan, and soon returned, carrying ten packets of tobacco, each weighing one kilogram, and secure- ly fastened by strips of paper, labeled with the CHAPTER X French government stamp. FAR INTO SPACE "Ten kilograms of tobacco at twelve francs a kilogram: a hundred and twenty francs," said the MONTH passed away. Gallia continued its Jew. course, bearing its little population onwards, Ben Zoof was on the point of laying down the A so far removed from the ordinary influence money, Servadac when stopped him. of human passions that it might almost be said that "Let us just see whether the weight is correct." its sole ostensible vice was represented by the greed Hakkabut pointed out that the weight was duly and avarice of the miserable Jew. registered on every packet, and that the packets had After all, they were but making a voyage— ;

170 AMAZING STORIES strange, yet a transient, excursion through solar volcano continued its regular and unchanging dis- regions hitherto untraversed ; but if the professor's charge, and Servadae, ever sanguine, declared that calculations were correct—and why should they be it was useless to give themselves any anxiety upon doubted?—their little vessel was destined, after a the matter. two years' absence, once more to return "to port." On the 15th of December, Gallia was 276,000,000 The landing, indeed, might be a matter of difficulty leagues from the sun, and, as it was approximately but with the good prospect before them of once to the extremity of its axis major, would travel only again standing on terrestrial shores, they had noth- some 11,000,000 or 12,000,000 leagues during the ing to do at present except to make themselves as month. Another world was now becoming a con- comfortable as they could in their present quarters. spicuous object in the heavens, and Palmyrin Ro- Thus confident in their anticipations, neither the sette, after rejoicing in an approach nearer to captain, the count, nor the lieutenant felt under any Jupiter than any other mortal man had ever at- serious obligation to make any extensive provisions tained, was now to be privileged to enjoy a similar for the future; they saw no necessity for expend- opportunity of contemplating the planSt Saturn. Not ing the strength of the people, during the short that the circumstances were altogether so favorable. summer that would intervene upon the long severity Scarcely 31,000,000 miles had separated Gallia from of winter, in the cultivation or the preservation of Jupiter, the minimum distance of Saturn would not their agricultural resources. Nevertheless they be less than 415,000,000 miles; but even this dis- often found themselves talking over the measures tance, although too great to affect the comet's prog- they would have been driven to adopt, if they had ress more than had been duly reckoned on, was con- found themselves permanently attached to their siderably shorter than what had ever separated present home. Saturn from the earth. Even after the turning-point in their career, they To get any information about the planet from Ro- knew that at least nine months would have to elapse sette appeared quite impossible. Although equally before the sea would be open to navigation; but at by night and by day he never seemed to quit his the very first arrival of summer they would be telescope, he did not evince the slightest inclination bound to arrange for the Dobryna and the Hansa to to impart the results of his observations. It was retransport themselves and all their animals to the only from the few astronomical works that hap- shores of Gourbi Island, where they would have to pened to be included in the Dobryna's library that commence their agricultural labors to secure the any details could be gathered, but these were suffi- crops that must form their winter store. During cient to give a large amount of interesting informa- four months or thereabouts, they would lead the tion. lives of farmers and of sportsmen; but no sooner Ben Zoof, when he was made aware that the would their haymaking and their corn harvest have earth would be invisible to the naked eye from the been accomplished, than they would be compelled surface of Saturn, declared that he then, for his again, like a swarm of bees, to retire to their semi- part, did not care to learn any more about such a troglodyte existence in the cells of Nina's Hive. planet; to him it was indispensable that the earth Now and then the captain and his friends found should remain in sight, and it was his great con- themselves speculating whether, in the event of their solation that hitherto his native sphere had never having to spend another winter upon Gallia, some vanished from his gaze. means could not be devised by which the dreariness At this date Saturn was revolving at a distance of a second residence in the recesses of the volcano of 420,000,000 miles from Gallia, and consequently might be escaped. Would not another exploring 874,440,000 miles from the sun, receiving only a expedition possibly result in the discovery of a vein hundredth part of the light and heat which that of coal or other combustible matter, which could be luminary bestows upon the earth. On consulting turned to account in warming some erection which their books of reference, the colonists found that they might hope to put up? A prolonged existence Saturn completes its revolution round the sun in a in their underground quarters was felt to be period of 29 years and 167 days, traveling at the monotonous and depressing, and although it might rate of more than 21,000 miles an hour along an be all very well for a man like Professor Rosette, orbit measui-ing 5,490 millions of miles in length. absorbed in astronomical studies, it was ill suited Its circumference is about 220,000 miles; its to the temperaments of any of themselves for any superficies, 144,000 millions of square miles; its longer period than was absolutely indispensable. volume, 143,846 millions of cubic miles. Saturn is One contingency there was, almost too terrible to 735 times larger than the earth, consequently it is be taken into account. Was it not to«be expected smaller than Jupiter; in mass it is only 90 times that the time might come when the internal fires greater than the earth, which gives it a density of Gallia would lose their activity, and the stream less than that of water. It revolves on its axis in. of lava would consequently cease to flow? Why 10 hours 29 minutes, and its own year consists of account of the great should Gallia be exempt from the destiny that 86,630 days ; and its seasons, on seemed to await every other heavenly body? Why inclination of its axis to the plane of its orbit, are terrestrial years. should it not roll onwards, like the moon, a dark cold each of the length of seven mass in space? Although the light received from the sun is com- In the event of such a cessation of the volcanic paratively feeble, the nights upon Saturn must be eruption, whilst the comet was Still at so great a splendid. Eight satellites — Mimas, Enceladus, distance from the sun, they would indeed be at a loss Tethys, Dione, Rhea, Titan, Hyperion, and Japetus to its to find a substitute for what alone had served to —accompany the planet; Mimas, the nearest render life endurable at a temperature of 60° below primary, rotating on its axis in 22% hours, and miles, whilst zero. Happily, however, there was at present no revolving at a distance of only 120,800 symptom of the subsidence of the lava's stream; the Japetus, the most remote, occupies 79 days in its .

OFF ON A COMET 171

rotation, and revolves at a distance of 2,314,000 way to convey a due impression of the magnitude mi lea. of these distances. Astronomers, in their ingenuity, Another most important contribution to the have endeavored to use some other basis, and have magnificence of the nights upon Saturn is the triple found "the velocity of light" to be convenient for ring with which, as a brilliant setting, the planet ia their purpose. They have made their representa- encompassed. To an observer at the equator, this tions something in this way:

1 ring , which has been estimated by Sir William "Suppose," they say, "an observer endowed with

Hersehel as scarcely 100 miles in thickness, must and infinite length of vision : suppose him stationed have the appearance of a narrow band of light pass- on the surface of Cappella; looking thence towards ing through the zenith 12,000 miles above his head. the earth, he would be a spectator of events that As the observer, however, increases his latitude had happened seventy years previously; transport either north or south, the band will gradually widen him to a star ten times distant, and he will be re- out into three detached and concentric rings, of viewing the terrestrial sphere of 720 years back; which the innermost, dark though transparent, is carry him away further still, to a star so remote 9,625 miles in breadth; the intermediate one, which that it requires something less than nineteen cen- is brighter than the planet itself, being 17,G05 miles turies for light to reach it,* and he would be a wit-

; outer, hue, broad and the of a dusky being 8,660 ness of the birth and death of Christ ; convey him miles broad. further again, and he shall be looking upon the dread Such, they read, is the general outline of this desolation of the Deluge ; take him away further yet strange appendage, which revolves in its own plane (for space is infinite), and he shall be a spectator in 10 hours 32 minutes. Of what matter it is com- of the Creation of the spheres. History is thus posed, and how it resists disintegration, is still an stereotyped in space; nothing once accomplished can unsettled question; but it might almost seem that ever be effaced." the Designer of the universe/ in permitting its ex- Who can altogether be astonished that Palmyrin istence, had been willing to impart to His intelligent Rosette, with his burning thirst for astronomical re- creatures the manner in which celestial bodies are search, should have been conscious of a longing for evolved, and that this remarkable ring-system is a yet wider travel through the sidereal universe? remnant of the nebula from which Saturn was him- With his comet now under the influence of one star, self developed, and which, from some unknown now of another, what various systems might he not cause, has become solidified. If at any time it have explored! what undreamed-of marvels might should disperse, it would either fall into fragments not have revealed themselves before his gaze! The upon the surface of Saturn, or the fragments, mu- stars, fixed and immovable in name, are all of them tually coalescing, would form additional satellites in motion, and Gallia might have followed them in to circle round the planet in its path. their untracked way. To an observer stationed on the planet, between But Gallia had a narrow destiny. She was not the extremes of lat. 45° on either side of the to be allowed to wander away into the range of at-

equator, these wonderful rings would present vari- traction of another center ; nor to mingle with the ous strange phenomena. Sometimes they would ap- star clusters, some of which have been entirely, pear as an illuminated arch, with the shadow of others partially resolved; nor was she to lose her- Saturn passing over it like the hour-hand over a self amongst the 5,000 nebulas which have resisted

dial ; at other times they would be like a semi-aure- hitherto the grasp of the most powerful reflectors. ole of light. Very often, too, for periods of several No; Gallia was neither to pass beyond the limits of years, daily eclipses of the sun must occur through the solar system, nor to travel out of sight of the the interposition of this triple ring. terrestrial sphere. Her orbit was circumscribed to Truly, the constant with rising and setting of the little over 1,500 millions of miles ; and in comparison satellites, some with bright discs at their full, with the infinite space beyond, this was a mere others like silver crescents, in quadrature, as well as nothing. by the encircling rings, the aspect of the heavens from the surface of Saturn must be as impressive CHAPTER XI as it is gorgeous. A FETE DAY The Gallians indeed, were unable to realize all the marvels of this strange world. After all, they temperature continued to decrease; the were practically a thousand times further off than THEmercurial thermometer, which freezes at 42° the great astronomers were able to approach by below zero, was no longer of service, and the means of their giant telescopes. But they did not spirit thermometer of the Dobryna had been complain; their little comet, they knew, was far brought into use. This now registered 53° below safer where it was; far better out of the S-each of freezing-point. an attraction which, by affecting their path, might In the creek, where the two vessels had been have annihilated their best hopes. moored for the winter, the elevation of the ice, in The distances of several of the brightest of the anticipation of which Lieutenant Procope had taken fixed stars have been estimated. Amongst others, the precautionary measure of beveling, was going Vega in the constellation Lyra is 100 millions of on slowly but irresistibly, and the tartan was up- millions of miles away; Sirius in Canis Major, 123 heaved fifty feet above the level of the Gallian Sea, millions of millions; the Pole star, 282 millions of while the schooner, as being lighter, had been raised millions; and Capella, 340 millions of millions of to a still greater altitude. miles, a figure represented by no less than fifteen So irresistible was this gradual _ process of eleva- digits. tion, so utterly defying all human power to arrest, The hard numerical statement of these enormous that the lieutenant began to feel very anxious as figures, however, fails altogether in any adequate to the safety of his yacht. With the exception of

*This book appeared hi the Nineteenth Century. 172 AMAZING STORIES the engine and the masts, everything had been quired that some purchase should be made from his cleared out and conveyed to shore, but in the event stock of commodities. Meanwhile, all the silver and of a thaw it appeared that nothing short of a gold of the colony was gradually finding its way to miracle could prevent the hull from being dashed to a double-locked drawer, of which the Jew most care- pieces, and then all means of leaving the promontory fully guarded the key. would be gone. The Mansa, of course, would share The 1st of January was drawing near, the anni- a similar fate; in fact, it had already heeled over versary of the shock which had resulted in the sev- to such an extent as to render it quite dangerous erance of thirty-six human beings from the society for its obstinate owner, who, at the peril of his life, of their fellow-men. Hitherto, not one of them was resolved that he would stay where he could watch missing. The unvarying calmness of the climate, over his all-precious cargo, though continually in- notwithstanding the cold, had tended to maintain voking curses on the ill-fate of which he deemed them in good health, and there seemed no reason to himself the victim. doubt that, when Gallia returned to the earth, the There was, however, a stronger will than Isaac total of its little population would still be com- Hakkabut's. Although no one of all the community plete. cared at all for the safety of the Jew, they cared The 1st of January, it is true, was not properl-y very much for the security of his cargo, and when "New Year's Day" in Gallia, but Captain Servadac, Servadac found that nothing would induce the old nevertheless, was very anxious to have it observed man to abandon his present quarters voluntarily, he as a holiday, very soon adopted measures of coercion that were "I do not think," he said to Count Timascheff and far more effectual than any .representations of per- Lieutenant Proeope, "that we ought to allow our sonal danger. people to lose their interest in the world to which

"Stop where you like, Hakkabut," said the captain we are all hoping to return ; and how can we cement to him; "but understand that I consider it my duty the bond that ought to unite us, better than by to make sure that your cargo is taken care of. I celebrating, in common with our fellow-creatures am going to have it carried across to land, at once." upon earth, a day that awakens afresh the kindliest Neither groans, nor tears, nor protestations on sentiments of all? Besides," he added, smiling, "I the part of the Jew, were of the slightest avail. expect that Gallia, although invisible just at present Forthwith, on the 20th of December, the removal of to the naked eye, is being closely watched by the the goods commenced. telescopes of our terrestrial friends, and I have no Both Spaniards and Russians were all occupied doubt that the newspapers and scientific journals of for several days in the work of unloading the tartan. both hemispheres are full of accounts detailing the Well muffled up as they were' in furs, they were movements of the new comet." able to endure the cold with impunity, making it "True," asserted the count. "I can quite imagine their special care to avoid actual contact with any that we are occasioning no small excitement in all article of metal, which, in the low state of the the chief observatories." temperature, would inevitably have taken all the "Ay, more than that," said the lieutenant; "our akin off their hands, as mueh as if it had been red- Gallia is certain to be far more than a mere object hot. The task, however, was brought to an end of scientific interest or curiosity. Why should we without accident of any kind; and when the stores doubt that the elements of a comet which has once of the Hansa were safely deposited in the galleries come into collision with the earth have by this time of the Hive, Lieutenant Proeope avowed that he been accurately calculated? What our friend the really felt that his mind had been unburdened from professor has done here, has been done likewise on a great anxiety. the earth, where, beyond a question, all manner Captain Servadac gave old Isaac full permission to of expedients are being discussed as to the best way take up his residence amongst the rest of the com- of mitigating the violence of a concussion that must munity, promised him the entire control over his occur." own property, and altogether showed him so much The lieutenant's conjectures were so reasonable consideration that, but for his unbounded respect that they commanded assent. Gallia could scarcely for his master, Ben Zoof would have liked to repri- be otherwise than an object of terror to the in- mand him for his courtesy to a man whom he so habitants of the earth, who could by no means be cordially despised. certain that a second collision would be compara- Although Hakkabut clamored most vehemently tively so harmless as the first. Even to the Gallians about his goods being carried off "against his will," themselves, much as they looked forward to the in his heart he was more than satisfied to see his event, the prospect was not unmixed with alarm, property transferred to a place of safety, and de- and they would rejoice in the invention of any de- lighted, moreover, to know that the transport had vice by which it was likely the impetus of the shock been effected without a farthing of expense to him- might be deadened. self. As soon, then, as he found the tartan empty, Christmas arrived, and was marked by apropriate he was only too glad to accept the offer that had been religious observance by everyone in the community, made him, and very soon made his way over to the with the exception of the Jew, who made a point quarters in the gallery where his merchandise had of secluding himself more obstinately than ever in been stored. Here he lived day and night. He sup- the gloomy recesses of his retreat. plied himself with what little food he required from To Ben Zoof the last week of the year was full his own stock of provisions, a small spirit-lamp of bustle. The arrangements for the New Year sufficing to perform all the operations of his meager fete were entrusted to him, and he was anxious, in cookery. Consequently all intercourse between him- spite of the resources of Gallia being so limited, to self and the rest of the inhabitants was entirely make the program for the great day as attractive confined to business transactions, when occasion re- as possible. !

OFF ON A COMET 173

It was a matter of debate that night whether summit of the volcano, with its corona of vapor, was the professor should be invited to join the party ; it entirely out of sight. Occasionally the skaters were was scarcely likely that he would care to come, but, obliged to stop to recover their breath, but, fearful on the whole, it was felt to be advisable to ask him. of frost-bite, they almost instantly resumed their At first Captain Servadac thought of going in per- exercise, and proceeded nearly as far as Gourbi son with the invitation ; but, remembering Rosette's Island before they thought about retracing their dislike to visitors, he altered his mind, and sent course. young Pablo up to the observatory with a formal But night was coming on, and the sun was al- note, requesting the pleasure of Professor Rosette's ready sinking in the east with the rapidity to which company at the New Year's fSte. the residents on Gallia were by this time well ac- Pablo was soon back, bringing no answer except customed. The sunset upon this contracted horizon that the professor had told him that "to-day was was very remarkable. There was not a cloud nor a the 125th of June, and that to-morrow would be the vapor to catch the tints of the declining beams; the 1st of July." surface of the ice did not, a3 a liquid sea would, re-

Consequently, Servadac and the count took it for flect the last green ray of light ; but the radiant orb, granted that Palmyrin Rosette declined their in- enlarged by the effect of refraction, its circumfer- vitation. ence sharply defined against the sky, sank abruptly, An hour after sunrise on New Year's Day, as though a trap had been opened in the ice for its Frenchmen, Russians, Spaniards, and little Nina, as reception. the representative of Italy, sat down to a feast such Before the daylight ended. Captain Servadac had as never before had been seen in Gallia. Ben Zoof cautioned the party to collect themselves betimes and the Russian cook had quite surpassed them- into one group. "Unless you are sure of your where- selves. The wines, part of the Dobryna's stores, abouts before dark," he said, "you will not find it were of excellent quality. Those of the vintages of after. We have come out like a party of skirmish- France and Spain were drunk in toasting their re- ers; let us go back in full force." spective countries, and even Russia was honored in The night would be dark; their moon was in con- a similar way by means of a few bottles of kuemmel. junction, and would not be seen; the stars would The company was more than contented—it was only give something of that "pale radiance" which

as jovial as Ben Zoof could desire ; and the ringing the poet Corneille has described. cheers that followed the great toast of the day— Immediately after sunset the torches were "A happy return to our Mother Earth," must fairly lighted, and the long series of flames, fanned by have startled the professor in the silence of his ob- the rapid motion of their bearers, had much the servatory. appearance of an enormous fiery banner. An hour The dejeuner over, there still remained three later, the volcano appeared like a dim shadow on hours of daylight. The sun was approaching the the horizon, the light from the crater shedding a zenith, but so dim and enfeebled were his days that lurid glare upon the surrounding gloom. In time the they were very unlike what had produced the wines glow of the burning lava, reflected in the icy mirror, of Bordeaux and Burgundy which they had just fell upon the troop of skaters, and cast their length- been enjoying, and it was necessary for all, before ened shadows grotesquely on the surface of the starting upon an excursion that would last over frozen sea. nightfall, to envelop themselves in the thickest of Later still, half an hour or more afterwards, the clothing. torches were all but dying out. The shore was close Full of spirits, the party left the Hive, and chat- at hand. All at once, Ben Zoof uttered a startled tering and singing as they went, made their way cry, and pointed with bewildered excitement towards down to the frozen shore, where they fastened on the mountain. Involuntarily, one and all, they their skates. Once upon the ice, everyone followed plowed their heels into the ice and came to a halt. his own fancy, and some singly, some in groups, Exclamations of surprise and horror burst from scattered themselves in all directions. Captain every lip. The volcano was extinguished! The stream Servadac, the eount, and the lieutenant were gen- of burning lava had suddenly ceased to flow! erally seen together. Negrete and the Spaniards, Speechless with amazement, they stood still for now masters of their novel exercise, wandered some moments. There was not one of them that did fleetly and gracefully hither and thither, occasion- not realize, more or less, how critical was their posi- ally being out of sight completely. The Russian tion. The sole source of the heat that had enabled sailors, following a northern custom, skated in file, them to brave the rigor of the cold had failed them! maintaining their rank by means of a long pole death, in the cruellest of all shapes, seemed staring passed under their right arms, and in this way they them in the face—death from cold described a trackway of singular regularity. The Meanwhile, the last torch had flickered out. two children, blithe as birds, flitted about, now It was quite dark. singly, now arm-in-arm, now joining the captain's "Forward !" cried Servadac, firmly. party, now making a short peregrination by them- At the word of command they advanced to the selves, but always full of life and spirit. As for shore; clambered with no little difficulty up the Ben Zoof, he was here, there, and everywhere, his slippery rocks; gained the mouth of the gallery; imperturbable good temper ensuring him a smile of groped their way into the common hall. welcome whenever he appeared. How dreary! how chill it seemed! Thus coursing rapidly over the icy plain, the Th fiery cataract no longer spread its glowing whole party had soon exceeded the line that made covering over the mouth of the grotto. Lieutenant the horizon from the shore. First, the rocks of Proeope leaned through the aperture. The pool, the coast were lost to view; then the white crests of hitherto kept fluid by its proximity to the lava, was the cliffs were no longer to be seen; and at last, the already encrusted with a layer of ice. 174 AMAZING STORIES

' Such was the i the New Year's Day so task of exploring all the galleries, and was soon happily begun. able to report that he had discovered one which he had every reason to believe abutted upon the central funnel. His reason for coming to this conclusion was CHAPTER XII that the ealorie emitted by the rising vapors of the THE BOWELS OF THE COMET hot lava seemed to be oozing, as it were, out of the tellurium, which had been demonstrated already to whole night was spent in speculating, with be a conductor of heat. Only succeed in piercing THEgloomy forebodings, upon the chances of the through this rock for seven or eight yards, and the future. The temperature of the hall, now en- lieutenant did not doubt that his way would be tirely exposed to the outer air, was rapidly falling, opened into the old lava-course, by following which and would quickly become unendurable. Far too he hoped descent would be easy. intense was the cold to allow anyone to remain at the Under the lieutenant's direction the Russian sail- opening, and the moisture on the walls soon resolved ors were immediately set to work. Their former itself into icicles. But the mountain was like the experience had convinced them that spades and pick- body of a dying man, that retains awhile a certain axes were of no avail, and their sole resource was to amount of heat at the heart after the extremities proceed by blasting with gun-powder. However have become cold and dead. In the more interior skillfully the operation might be carried on, it must galleries there was still a certain degree of warmth, necessarily occupy several days, and during that and thither Servadac and his companions were glad time the sufferings from cold must be very severe. enough to retreat. "If we fail in our object, and cannot get to the Here they found the professor, who, startled by depths of the mountain, our little colony is the sudden cold, had been fain to make a precipitate doomed," said Count Timascheff. retreat from his observatory. Now would have been "That speech is not like yourself," answered the opportunity to demand of the enthusiast whether Servadac, smiling. "What has become of the faith he would like to prolong his residence indefinitely which has hitherto carried you so bravely through upon his little comet. It is very likely that he would all our difficulties?" have declared himself ready to put up with any The count shook his head, as if in despair, and amount of discomfort to he able to gratify his love said, sadly, "The Hand that has hitherto been out- of investigation; but all were far too disheartened slujk'hed to help seems now to be withdrawn." and distressed to care to banter him upon the sub- "But only to test our powers of endurance," re- ject on which he was so sensitive. joined the captain, earnestly. "Courage, my friend, Next morning, Servadac thus addressed his courage! Something tells me that this cessation of people. "My friends, except from cold, we have noth- the eruption is only partial; the internal fire is not ing to fear. Our provisions are ample—more than all extinct. All is not over yet. It is too soon to enough for the remaining period of our sojourn in give up; never despair!" this lone world of ours; our preserved meat is al- Lieutenant Procope quite concurred with the ready cooked; we shall be able to dispense with all captain. Many causes, he knew, besides the in- fuel for cooking purposes. Ail that we require is terruption of the influence of the oxygen upon the

warmth—warmth for ourselves : let us secure that, mineral substances in Gallia's interior, might ac- and all may he well. Now, I do not entertain a doubt count for the stoppage of the lava-flow in this one

, but that the warmth we require is resident in the particular spot, and he considered it more than bowels of this mountain on which we are living; to probable that a fresh outlet had been opened in some the depth of those bowels we must penetrate; there other part of the surface, and that the eruptive mat- we shall obtain the warmth which is indispensable ter had been diverted into the new channel. But to our very existence." at present his business was to prosecute his labors His tone, quite as much as his words, restored so that a retreat might be immediately effected from confidence to many of his people, who were already their now untenable position. yielding to a feeling of despair. The count and the Restless and agitated. Professor Rosette, if he lieutenant fervently, but silently, grasped his hand. took any interest in these discussions, certainly took "Nina," said the captain, "you will not be afraid no share in them. He had brought his telescope to go down to the lower depths of the mountain, down from the observatory into the common hall, will you?" and there at frequent intervals, by night and by "Not if Pablo goes," replied the child. day, he would endeavor to continue his observa- "Oh yes, of course, Pablo will go. You are not tions; but the intense cold perpetually compelled afraid to go, are you Pablo?" he said, addressing him to desist, or he would literally have been frozen the hoy. to death. No sooner, however, did he find himself "Anywhere with you, your Excellency," was the obliged to retreat from his study of the heavens, boy's prompt reply. than he would begin overwhelming everybody about And certain it was that no time must he lost in him with bitter complaints, pouring out his regrets

penetrating below the heart of the volcano ; already that he had ever quitted his quarters at Formentera. the most protected of the many ramifications of On the 4th of January, by persevering industry, Nina's Hive were being pervaded by a cold that was the process of boring was completed, and the lieu- insufferable. It was an acknowledged impossibility, tenant could hear that fragments of the blasted to get access to the crater by the exterior declivities rock, as the sailors cleared them away with their

of the mountain-side ; they were far too steep and spades, were rolling into the funnel of the crater. too slippery to afford a foothold. It must of neces- He noticed, too, that they did not fall perpendicu- sity be entered from the interior. larly, but seemed to slide along, from which he in- Lieutenant Procope accordingly undertook the ferred that the sides of the crater rVere sloping; he OFF ON A COMET 175 had therefore reason to hope that a descent would "Those who are chilly are welcome to go as much be found practicable. lower as they like. For my part, I shall be quite Larger and larger grew the orifice; at length it warm enough here." would admit a man's body, and Ben Zoof, carrying a After throwing the gleams of torch-light in all torch, pushed himself through it, followed by the directions, the explorers seated themselves on a jut- lieutenant and Servadac. Procope's conjecture ting rock, and began to debate whether it was prac- proved correct. On entering the crater, they found ticable for the colony to make an abode in these that the sides slanted at the angle of about four lower depths of the mountain. The prospect, it

degrees ; moreover, the eruption had evidently been must be owned, was not inviting. The crater, it is of recent origin, dating probably only from the true, widened out into a cavern sufficiently large, shock which had invested Gallia with a proportion but here its accommodation ended. Above and below of the atmosphere of the earth, and beneath the were a few ledges in the rock that would serve as coating of ashes with which they were covered, receptacles for provisions; but, with the exception there were various irregularities in the rock, not yet of a small recess that must be reserved for Nina, it worn away by the action of the lava, and these af- was clear that henceforth they must all renounce the forded a tolerably safe footing. idea of having separate apartments. The single cave '•'Bather a bad stair-case I" said Ben Zoof, as they must be their dining-room, drawing-room, and dor- began to make their way down. mitory, all in one. From living the life of rabbits in In about half an hour, proceeding in a southerly a warren, they were reduced to the existence of direction, they had descended nearly five hundred moles, with the difference that they could not, like feet. From time to time they came upon large ex- them, forget their troubles in a long winter's sleep. cavations that at first sight had all the appearance The cavern, however, was quite capable of being of galleries, but by waving his torch, Ben Zoof lighted by means of lamps and lanterns. Among the could always see their extreme limits, and it was stores were several barrels of oil and a considerable evident that the lower strata of the mountain did quantity of spirits of wine, which might be burned not present- the same system of ramification that when required for cooking purposes. Moreover, it rendered the Hive above so commodious a residence. would be unnecessary for them to confine them-

It was not a time to be fastidious ; they must be selves entirely to the seclusion of their gloomy satisfied with such accommodation as they could residence; well wrapped up, there would be nothing get, provided it was warm. Captain Servadac was to prevent them making occasional excursions both only too glad to find that his hopes about the temper- to the Hive and to the sea-shore. A supply of ature were to a certain extent realized. The lower fresh water would be constantly required; ice for they went, the greater was the diminution in the this purpose must be perpetually carried in from cold, a diminution that was far more rapid than that the coast, and it would be necessary to arrange that which is experienced in making the descent of ter- everyone in turn should perform this office, as it restrial mines. In this case it was a volcano, not a would be no sinecure to clamber up the sides of the colliery, that was the object of exploration, and crater for 900 feet, and descend the same distance thankful enough they were to find that it had not with a heavy burden. become extinct. Although the lava, from some un- But the emergency was great, and it was accord- known cause, had ceased to rise in the crater, yet ingly soon decided that the little colony should forth- plainly it existed somewhere in an incandescent with take up its quarters in the cave. After all, they state, and was still transmitting considerable heat said, they should hardly be much worse off than to inferior strata. thousands who annually winter in Arctic regions. Lieutenant Procope had brought in his hand a On board the whaling-vessels, and in the establish- mercurial thermometer, and Servadac carried an ments of the Hudson's Bay Company, such luxuries aneroid barometer, by means of which he could esti- as separate cabins or sleeping-chambers are never mate the depth of their descent below the level of thought of; one large apartment, well heated and the Gallian Sea. When they were six hundred feet ventilated, with as few corners as possible, is con- below the orifice the mercury registered a tempera- sidered far more healthy; and on board ship the ture of 6" C. below zero. entire hold, and in forts a single floor, is appro- "Six degrees!" said Servadac; "that will not suit priated to this purpose. The recollection of this fact us. At this low temperature we could not survive served to reconcile them, in a great degree, to the the winter. We must try deeper down. I only hope change to which they felt it requisite to submit. the ventilation will hold out." Having remounted the ascent, they made the re- There was, however, nothing to fear on the score sult of their exploration known to the mass of the of ventilation. The great current of air that rushed community, who received the tidings with a sense of the aperture penetrated everywhere, and made into relief, and cordially accepted the scheme of the respiration perfectly easy. migration. The descent was continued for about another The first step was to clear the cavern of its three hundred feet, which brought the explorers to accumulation of ashes, and then the labor of removal a total depth of nine hundred feet from their old commenced in earnest. Never was a task undertaken quarters. Here the thermometer registered 12° C. with greater zest. The fear of being to a certainty above zero—a temperature which, if only it were frozen to death if they remained where they were, permanent, was all they wanted. There was no ad- that everyone put forth all his vantage in proceeding any further along the lava- was a stimulus made cooking utensils first course; they could already hear the dull rumblings energies. Beds, furniture, — that indicated that they were at no great distance the stores of the Dobryna, then the cargo of the from the central focus. tartan—all were carried down with ^he greatest "Quite near enough for me!" exclaimed Ben Zoof. alacrity, and the diminished weight combined with 176 AMAZING STORIES

the downhill route to make the labor proceed with probably of quite recent origin, because the comet incredible briskness. before its collision with the earth had possessed no Although Professor Rosette yielded to the pres- atmosphere, and that consequently no oxygen could sure of circumstances, and allowed himself to be have penetrated to its interior. conducted to the lower regions, nothing would in- "Most likely you are right," replied the count; duce to allow him his telescope to be carried under- "and so far from dreading a failure of the internal ground; as it undeniable and was that it would cer- heat, I am not quite sure that we may not be ex- tainly of service be no deep down in the bowels of posed to a more terrible calamity still?" the mountain, it was allowed to remain undisturbed "What?" asked Servadac. upon its tripod in the great hall of Nina's Hive. "The calamity of the eruption breaking out sud- As for Isaac Hakkabut, his outcry was beyond denly again, and taking us by surprise." description lamentable. Never, in the whole uni- "Heavens!" cried the captain, "we will not think verse, had a merchant met with such reverses; never of that." had such a pitiable series of losses befallen an un- "The outbreak may happen again," said the lieu- fortunate man. Regardless of the ridicule which his tenant, calmly ; "but it will be our fault, our lack of abject wretchedness excited, he howled on still, and vigilance, if we are taken by surprise." And so the kept up an unending wail ; but meanwhile he kept c::. versation dropped. a keen eye upon every article of his property, and The 15th of January dawned; and the comet was amidst universal laughter insisted on having every 220,000,000 leagues from the sun. item registered in an inventory as it was trans- Gallia had reached its aphelion. ferred to its appointed place of safety. Servadac considerately allowed the whole cargo to be de- posited in a hollow apart by itself, over which the CHAPTER XIII Jew was permitted to keep a watch as vigilant as he DREARY MONTHS

ENCEFORTH, then, with a velocity ever By the 10th the removal was accomplished. Res- y "J in- I I creasing, Gallia cued, at all events, from the exposure to a perilous would re-approach the sun. JL A. temperature of 60° below zero, the community was Except the thirteen Englishmen who had been left at Gibraltar, installed in its new home. The large cave was every living creature had tak- in the lighted by the Dobryna's lamps, while several Ian- en refuge dark abyss of the volcano's crater. terns, suspended at intervals along the acclivity And with those Englishmen, how had it fared? that led to their deserted quarters above, gave a ' "Par better than with ourselves," was the senti- weird picturesqueness to the scene, that might vie ment that would have been universally accepted in with any of the graphic descriptions of the "Arab- Nina's Hive. And there was every reason to con-, ian Nights' Entertainments." jecturei that so it was. The party at Gibraltar, they "How do you like this, Nina?" said Ben Zoof. all agreed, would not, like themselves, have been "Va bene!" replied the child. "We are only living compelled to have recourse to a stream of lava for in the cellars instead of upon the ground floor." their supply of heat ; they, no doubt, had had abun- "We will try and make ourselves comfortable," dance of fuel as well as food; and in their solid said the orderly. casemate, with its substantial walls, they would find "Oh yes, we will be happy here," rejoined the ample shelter from the rigor of the cold. The time child; "it is nice and warm." would have been passed at least in comfort, and per- Although they were as careful as they could to haps in contentment; and Colonel Murphy and conceal their misgivings from the rest, Servadac Major Oliphant would have had leisure more than and his two friends could not regard their present sufficient for solving the most abstruse problems situation without distrust. When alone, they would of the chess-board. All of them, too, would be happy frequently ask each other what would become of in the confidence that when the time should come, them all, if the volcanic heat should really be sub- England would have full meed of praise to award siding, or if some unexpected perturbation should to the gallant soldiers who had adhered so well and retard the course of the comet and compel them to so manfully to their post. an indefinitely prolonged residence in their grim It did, indeed, more than once occur to the minds abode. It was scarcely likely that the comet could both of Servadac and his friends that, if their con- supply the fuel of which ere long they would be in dition should become one of extreme emergency, they urgent need. Who could expect to find coal in the might, as a last resource, betake themselves to Gib- bowels of GalHa,—coal, which is the residuum of raltar, and there seek a refuge; but their former ancient forests mineralized by the lapse of ages? reception had not been of the kindest, and they were Would not the lava-cinders exhumed from the ex- little disposed to renew an acquaintanceship that tinct volcano be their last poor resource? was marked by so little cordiality—not that they ex- "Keep up your spirits, my friends," said Serva- pected to meet with any inhospitable rebuff. Far dac; "we have plenty of time before us at present. from that; they knew well enough that Englishmen, Let us hope that as fresh difficulties arise, fresh whatever their faults, would be the last to abandon ways of escape will open. Never despair!" their fellow-creatures in the hour of distress. "True," said the count; "it is an old saying that Nevertheless, unless the necessity became far more 'Necessity is the mother of invention.' Besides, I urgent than it had hitherto proved, they resolved to should think it very unlikely that the internal heat endeavor to remain in their present quarters. Up will fail us now before the summer." till this time no casualties had diminished their or- The lieutenant declared that he entertained the iginal number, but to undertake so long a journey same hope. As the reason for his opinion he alleged across that unsheltered expanse of iee could scarce- that the combustion of the eruptive matter was most ly fail to result in the loss of some of their party. :

OFF ON A COMET 177

However great was the desire to find a retreat for would persevere in the use of his telescope till he every living thing in the deep hollow of the crater, it was all but paralyzed. But what he felt more than was found necessary to slaughter almost all the anything was the want of some retired apartment, domestic animals before the removal of the com- where he could pursue his studies without hindrance munity from Nina's Hive. To have stabled them all or intrusion. in the cavern below would have been quite im- It was about the beginning of February, when the possible, whilst to have left them in the upper gal- professor brought his complaint to Captain Serva- leries would only have been to abandon them to a dac, and begged him to assign him a chamber, no cruel death; and since meat could be preserved for matter how small, in which he should be free to carry an indefinite time in the original store-places, now on his task in silence and without molestation. So colder than ever, the expedient of killing the animals readily did Servadac promise to do everything in his seemed to recommend itself as equally prudent and power to provide him with the accommodation for humane. which he asked, that the professor was put into such Naturally the captain and Ben Zoof were most a manifest good temper that the captain ventured anxious that their favorite horses should be saved, to speak upon the matter that was ever uppermost in and accordingly by dint of the greatest care, all dif- his mind, ficulties in the way were overcome, and Zephyr and "I do not mean," he began timidly, "to east the Galette were conducted down the crater, where they least imputation of inaccuracy upon any of your cal- were installed in a large hole and provided with culations, but would you allow me, my dear pro- forage, which was still abundant. fessor, to suggest that you should revise your esti- Birds, subsisting only on scraps thrown out to mate of the duration of Gallia's period of revolution. them did not cease to follow the population in its It is so important, you know, so all important; the migration, and so numerous did they become that difference of one half minute, you know, would so multitudes of them had repeatedly to be destroyed. certainly mar the expectation of reunion with the The general re-arrangement of the new residence earth " was no easy business, and occupied so much time that And seeing a cloud gathering on Rosette's face, the end of January arrived before they could be said added to be fairly settled. And then began a life of dreary "I am sure Lieutenant Procope would be only too monotony. There seemed to creep over everyone a happy to render you any assistance in thei revision." kind of moral torpor as well as physical lassitude, "Sir," said the professor, bridling up, "I want no which Servadac, the count, and the lieutenant did assistant; my calculations want no revision. I never their best not only to combat in themselves, but to make an error. I have made my reckoning as far as counteract in the general community. They pro- Gallia is concerned. I am now making a like estimate vided a variety of intellectual pursuits; they insti- of the elements of Nerina." tuted debates in which everybody was encouraged to Conscious how impolitic it would be to press this take part; they read aloud, and explained extracts matter further, the captain casually remarked that from the elementary manuals of science, or from the he should have supposed that all the elements of books of adventurous travel which their library sup- Nerina had been calculated long since by astronom- plied; and Russians and Spaniards, day after day, ers on the earth. It was about as unlucky a speech might be seen gathered round the large table, giving as he could possibly have made. The prof f 3sor glared their best attention to instruction which should send at him fiercely. them back to Mother Earth less ignorant than they "Astounding, sir!" he exclaimed. "Yes! Nerina had left her. was a planet then; everything that appertained to Selfish and morose, Hakkabut could never be in- the planet was determined; but Nerina is a moon duced to be present at these social gatherings. He now. And do you not think, sir, that we have a was far too much occupied in his own appropriated right to know as much about our moon as those corner, either in conning his accounts, or in count- terrestrials"—and he curled his lip as he spoke with ing his money. Altogether, with what he had before, a contemptuous emphasis—"know of theirs?" he now possessed the round sum of 150,000 francs, "I beg pardon," said the corrected captain. half of which was in sterling gold ; but nothing could ''Well then, never mind," replied the professor, give him any satisfaction while he knew that the quickly appeased; "only will you have the goodness days were passing, and that he was denied the op- to get me a proper place for study?" portunity of putting out his capital in advantageous "I will, as I promised, do all I can," answered investments, or securing a proper interest. Servadac. Neither did Palmyrin Eosette find leisure to take "Very good," said the professor. "No immediate any share in the mutual intercourse. His occupation hurry; an hour hence will do." was far too absorbing for him to suffer it to be inter- But in spite of this condescension on the part of rupted, and to him, living as he did perpetually in a the man of science, some hours had to elapse before world of figures, the winter days seemed neither long any place of retreat could be discovered likely to suit nor wearisome. Having ascertained every possible his requirements; but at length a little nook was particular about his comet, he was now devoting found in the side of the cavern just large enough to himself with equal ardor to the analysis of all the hold an armchair and a table, and in this the as- properties of the satellite Nerina, to which he ap- tronomer was soon ensconced to his entire satisfac- peared to assert the same claim of proprietorship. tion. In order to investigate Nerina it was indispens- Buried thus, nearly 900 feet below ground, the able that he should make several actual observations Gallians ought to have had unbounded mental energy at various points of the orbit ; and for this purpose to furnish an adequate reaction to the depressing he repeatedly made his way up to the grotto above, monotony of their existence; but many days would where, in spite of the extreme severity of the cold, he often elapse without any one of them ascending to ;

178 AMAZING STORIES the surface of the soil, and had it not been for the continued to revive, and by the end of the month necessity of obtaining fresh water, it seemed almost Servadac and his little colony had regained most of probable that no one would ever have made an ef- their ordinary physical and mental energies. Ben fort to leave the cavern at all. Zoof, in particular, roused himself with redoubled A few excursions were made in the downward vigor, like a giant refreshed from his slumbers. The direction. The three leaders, with Ben Zoof, made visits, consequently, to the long-neglected galleries of their way to the lower depths of the crater, not with Nina's Hive became more and more frequent. the design of making any further examination as One day an excursion was made to the shore. It to the nature of the rock—for although it might be was still bitterly cold, but the atmosphere had lost true enough that it contained thirty per cent, of nothing of its former stillness, and not a cloud was gold, it was as valueless to them as granite—but visible from horizon to zenith. The old footmarks with the intention of ascertaining whether the sub- were all as distinct as on the day in which they had terranean fire still retained its activity. Satisfied been imprinted, and the only portion of the shore upon this point, they came to the conclusion that where any change was apparent was in the little the eruption which had so suddenly ceased in one creek. Here the elevation of the ice had gone on in- spot had certainly broken out in another. creasing, until the schooner and the tarton had been February, March, April, May, passed wearily by uplifted to a height of 150 feet, not only rendering but day succeeded to day with such gloomy same- them quite inaccessible, but exposing them to all but ness that it was little wonder that no notice was certain destruction in the event of a thaw. taken of the lapse of time. The people seemed rather Isaac Hakkabut, immovable from the personal to vegetate than to live, and their want of vigor be- oversight of his property in the cavern, had not ac- came at times almost alarming. The readings around companied the party, and consequently was in bliss- the long table ceased to be attractive, and the de- ful ignorance of the fate that threatened his vessel. bates, sustained by few, became utterly wanting in "A good thing the old fellow wasn't there to see," animation. The Spaniards could hardly be roused to observed Ben Zoof; "he would have screamed like a quit their beds, and seemed to have scarcely energy peacock. What a misfortune it is," he added, speak- enough to eat. The Russians, constitutionally of ing to himself, "to have a peacock's voice, without its !" more enduring temperament, did not give way to the plumage same extent, but the long and drear confinement was During the months of July and August, Gallia ad- beginning to tell upon them all. Servadac, the count, vanced 164,000,000 leagues along her orbit. At night and the lieutenant all knew well enough that it was the cold was still intense, but in the daytime the sun, the want of air and exercise that was the cause of here full upon the equator, caused an appreciable could 20° in the temperature. Like birds, the much of this mental depression ; but what they difference of do? The most serious remonstrances on their part population spent whole days exposed to its grateful were entirely in vain. In fact, they themselves oc- warmth, rarely returning till nightfall to the shade casionally fell a prey to the same lassitude both of of their gloomy home. body and mind. Long fits of drowsiness, combined This spring-time, if such it may be called, had a with an utter aversion to food, would come over most enlivening influence upon all. Hope and cour- them. It almost seemed as if their entire nature had age revived as day by day the sun's disc expanded in become degenerate, and that, like tortoises, they the sky, and every evening the earth assumed a stars. It could sleep and fast till the return of summer. greater magnitude among the fixed was Strange to say, little Nina bore her hardships distant yet, but the goal was cheeringly in view. more bravely than any of them. Flitting about, coax- "I can't believe that yonder little speck of light Montmartre," said Ben ing one to eat, another to drink, rousing Pablo as contains my mountain of often as he seemed yielding to the common languor, Zoof, one night, after he had been gazing long and the child became the life of the party. Her merry steadily at the far-off world. prattle enlivened the gloom of the grim cavern like "You will, I hope, some day find out that it does," the sweet notes of a bird ; her gay Italian songs broke answered his master. the monotony of the depressing silence; and almost "I hope so," said the orderly, without moving his unconscious as the half-dormant population of Gallia eye from the distant sphere. After meditating a were of her influence, they would have missed her while, he spoke again. "I suppose Professor Rosette on how, straight back, could he?" bright presence sorely. The months glided ; couldn't make his comet go liv- it seemed impossible for the inhabitants of the "Hush!" cried Servadac. ing tomb to say. There was a dead level of dullness. Ben Zoof understood the correction. At the beginning of June the general toi-por ap- "No," continued the captain; "it is not for man to peared slightly to relax its hold upon its victims. disturb the order of the universe. That belongs to a This partial revival was probably due to the some- Higher Power than ours 1" what increased influence of the sun, still far, far away. During the first half of the Galliao year, Lieu- CHAPTER XIV tenant Procope had taken careful note of Eosette's monthly announcements of the comet's progress, and THE PROFESSOR PERPLEXED he was able now, without reference to the professor, month passed away, and it was now to calculate the rate of advance on its way back to- ANOTHER September, but it was still impossible to leave wards the sun. He found that Gallia had recrossed the warmth of the subterranean retreat for the the orbit of Jupiter, but was still at the enormous quarters of the Hive, airy and commodious , distance of 197,000,000 leagues from the sun, and more where "the bees" would certainly have been frozen he reckoned that in about four months it would have death in their cells. It was altogether quite as entered the zone of the telescopic planets. to matter of congratulation as of regret that Gradually, but uninterruptedly, life and spirits much a OFF ON A COMET 179 the volcano showed no symptoms of resuming its conjecture that he had discovered some flaw in hia there activity ; for although a return of the eruption might reckonings; and if this were so, might not have rendered their former resort again habitable, be reason to apprehend that their anticipations of any sudden outbreak would have been disastrous to coming into contact with the earth, at the settled them where they were, the crater being the sole out- time, might all be falsified? let by which the burning lava could escape. Day followed day, and still there was no cessation "A wretched time we have had for the last seven of the professor's discomposure. He was the most months," said the orderly one day to his master; miserable of mortals. If really his calculations and "but what a comfort little Nina has been to us all!" his observations were at variance, this, in a man of

"Yea, indeed," replied Servadac ; "she is a charm- his irritable temperament, would account for his ing little creature. I hardly know how we should perpetual perturbation. But he entered into no ex- have got on without her." planation; he only climbed up to his telescope, look- "What is to become of her when we arrive back at ing haggard and distressed, and when compelled by the earth?" the frost to retire, he would make his way back to "Not much fear, Ben Zoof, but that she will be his study more furious than ever. At times he was well taken care of. Perhaps you and I had better heard giving vent to his vexation. "Confound it! adopt her." what does it mean? what is she doing? AH behind F "Ay, yes," assented the orderly. "You can be her Is Newton a fool? Is the law of universal gravita- father, and I can be her mother." tion the law of universal nonsense?" And the little Servadac laughed. "Then you and I shall be man man would seize his head in both hands, and tear and wife." away at the scanty locks which he could ill afford "We have been as good as that for a long time," to lose. observed Ben Zoof, gravely. Enough was overheard to confirm the suspicion By the beginning of October, the temperature had that there was some irreconcilable discrepancy so far moderated that it could scarcely be said to be between the results of his computation and what he intolerable. The comet's distance was scarcely three had actually observed; and yet, if he had been called times as great from the sun as the earth from the upon to say, he would have sooner insisted that there sun, so that the thermometer rarely sunk beyond was derangement in the laws of celestial mechanism, 35° below zero. The whole party began to make al- than have owned there was the least probability of most daily visits to the Hive, and frequently pro- error in any of his own calculations. Assuredly, if ceeded to the shore, where they resumed their skat- the poor professor had had any flesh to lose he ing exercise, rejoicing in their recovered freedom would have withered away to a shadow. like prisoners liberated from a dungeon. Whilst the But this state of things was before long to come rest were enjoying their recreation, Servadac and to an end. On the 12th, Ben Zoof, who was hanging the count would hold long conversations with Lieu- about outside the great hall of the cavern, heard tenant Procope about their present position and fu- the professor inside utter a loud cry. Hurrying in ture prospects, discussing all manner of speculations to ascertain the cause, he found Rosette in a state of as to the results of the anticipated collision with perfect frenzy, in which ecstasy and rage seemed predominance. the earth, and wondering whether any measures to be struggling for the could be devised for mitigating the violence of a "Eureka! Eureka!" yelled the excited astronomer. shock which might be terrible in its consequences, "What, in the name of peace, do you mean?" bawled Ben Zoof, in open-mouthed amazement. even if it did not entail a total annihilation of them- "Eureka!" again shrieked the little selves. man. Where?" roared There was no visitor to the Hive more regular "How? What? the bewildered than Rosette. He had already directed his telescope orderly. "Eureka! I say," repeated Rosette; to be moved back to his former observatory, where, "and if you understand me, you may to the as much as the cold would permit him, he persisted don't go devil!" availing himself of this polite invitation, in making his all-absorbing studies of the heavens. Without Zoof betook himself to his master. "Something The result of these studies no one ventured to in- Ben has happened to the professor," he said; "he is quire; but it became generally noticed that some- thing was very seriously disturbing the professor's rushing about like a madman, screeching and yell- equanimity. Not only would he be seen toiling more ing 'Eureka!'" frequently up the arduous way that lay between his "Eureka?" exclaimed Servadac. "That means he nook below and his telescope above, but he would be has made a discovery;" and, full of anxiety, he hur- the professor. heard muttering in an angry tone that indicated ried off to meet considerable agitation. But, however great was his desire to ascertain One day, as he was hurrying down to his study, what this discovery implied, his curiosity was not he met Ben Zoof, who, secretly entertaining a feel- yet destined to be gratified. The professor kept mut- ing of delight at the professor's manifest discomfi- tering in incoherent phrases : "Rascal ! he shall pay ture, made some casual remark about things not for it yet. I will be even with him ! Cheat ! Thrown being very sh'aight. The way in which his advance me out!" But he did not vouchsafe any reply to was received the good orderly never divulged, but Servadac's inquiries, and withdrew to his study. henceforward he maintained the firm conviction that From that day Rosette, for some reason at pres- there was something very much amiss up in the ent incomprehensible, quite altered his behavior to sky. Isaac Hakkabut, a man for whom he had always To Servadac and his friends this continual dis- hitherto evinced the greatest repugnance and con- quietude and ill-humor on the part of the professor tempt. All at once he began to show a remarkable occasioned no little anxiety. From what, they asked, interest in the Jew and his affairs, paying several could hi3 dissatisfaction arise? They could only visits to the dark little storehouse, making inquiries! ;

180 AMAZING STORIES as to the state of business and expressing some nutritious; it warms the blood. How much do you solicitude about the state of the exchequer. want?" last for a long time." The wily Jew was taken somewhat by surprise, A pound. A pound will me it for you?" asked Rosette, but came to an immediate conclusion that the pro- "And who will weigh the eagerness that prompted fessor was contemplating borrowing some money; scarcely able to conceal he was consequently very cautious in all his replies. the question. "Why, they will weigh it with my scale, of course. It was not Hakkabut's habit ever to advance a no other balance here." And as the Jew loan except at an extravagant rate of interest, or There is professor fancied he could detect the without demanding far more than an adequate spoke, the faintest of sighs. security. Count Timascheff, a Russian nobleman, "Good, Master Isaac; all the better for you! You was evidently rich ; to him perhaps, for a proper will get your seven pounds instead of one!" consideration, a loan might be made : Captain Serva- thereabouts thereabouts," dac was a Gascon, and Gascons are proverbially "Yes; well, seven, or — stammered the Jew with considerable hesitation. poor ; it would never do to lend any money to him scanned his countenance narrowly, and but here was a professor, a mere man of science, Rosette probe him with further questions, with circumscribed means; did he expect to borrow? was about to returned. "And what does his Ex- Certainly Isaac would as soon think of flying, as of when Ben Zoof cellency say?" inquired Hakkabut. lending money to him. Such were the thoughts that "Why, Nehemiah, he says he shan't give you made him receive ail Rosette's approaches with a any." careful reservation. "Merciful heavens!" began the Jew. It was not long, however, before Hakkabut was "He says he doesn't mind selling you a little." to be called upon to apply his money to a purpose "But, by the holy city, why does he make me for which he had not reckoned. In his eagerness to pay for what anybody else could have for nothing?" effect sales, he had parted with all the alimentary "As I told you before, you are not anybody else; articles of his cargo without having the precau- come along. You can afford to buy what you tionary prudence to reserve enough for his own con- so, want. should like to see the color of your sumption. Amongst other things that failed him We money." was his stock of coffee, and as coffee was a beverage "Merciful heavens!" the old man whined once without which he deemed it impossible to exist, he more. found himself in considerable perplexity. "Now, none of that! Yes or no? If you are He pondered the matter over for a long time, and going to buy, say so at once, if not, I shall shut ultimately persuaded himself that, after all, the up shop." stores were the common property of all, and that Hakkabut knew well enough that the orderly was he had as much right to share as anyone else. Ac- not a man to be trifled with, and said, in a tremulous cordingly, he made his way to Ben Zoof, and, in voice, "Yes, I will buy." the most amiable tone he could assume, begged as a The professor, who had been looking on with favor that he would let him have a pound of coffee. much interest, betrayed manifest symptoms of The orderly shook his head dubiously. satisfaction. "A pound of coffee, old Nathan? I can't say," "How much do you want? What will you charge "Why not? You have some?" said Isaac. for it?" asked Isaac mournfully, putting his hand "Oh yes ! plenty—a hundred kilograms." into his pocket and clinking his money. "Then let me have one pound. I shall be grate- "Oh, we will deal gently with you. We will not ful." make any profit. You shall have it for the same "Hang your gratitude!" price that we paid for it. Ten francs a pound, you "Only one pound I You would not refuse anybody know." else." The Jew hesitated. "That's just the very point, old Samuel; if you "Come now, what is the use of your hesitating? were anybody else, I should know very well what to Your gold will have no value when you go back do. I roust refer the matter to his Excellency." to the world," "Oh, his Excellency will do me justice." "What do you mean?" asked Hakkabut, startled. "Perhaps you will find his justice rather too much "You will find out some day," answered Ben Zoof, for you." And with this consoling remark, the or- significantly. derly went to seek his master. small piece of gold from Rosette meanwhile had been listening to the con- Hakkabut drew out a took it close under the lamp, rolled it versation, and secretly rejoicing that an opportunity his pocket, over in his hand, and pressed it to his lips. "Shall for which he had been watching had arrived. weigh the coffee with my scale?" he asked, "What's the matter, Master Isaac? Have you parted you me in a quavering voice that confirmed the professor's with all your coffee?" he asked, in a sympathizing suspicions. voice, when Ben Zoof was gone.

is nothing else to weigh it with ; you know "Ah! yes, indeed," groaned Hakkabut, "and now "There well enough, old Shechem," said Ben Zoof. The I require some for my own use. In my little black that was then produced ; a tray was sus- hole I cannot live without my coffee." spring balance thrown "Of course you cannot," agreed the professor. pended to the hook, and upon this coffee was the weight of one pound. "And don't you think the governor ought to let until the needle registered it took seven pounds of coffee to do this. me have it?" Of course, "No doubt." "There you are! There's your coffee, man!" Ben "Oh, I must have coffee," said the Jew again. Zoof said. "Certainly," the professor assented. "Coffee is "Are you sure?" inquired Hakkabut, peering I

OFF ON'A COMET 181 the of his for- down close to the dial, "are you quite sure that the spring balance had been mainspring pur- needle touches the point?" tune. But when it had become his lot to be the "Yes; look and see." chaser instead of the vendor, his spirit had groaned within at being compelled to reap the fruits "Give it a little push, please." him of his own dishonesty. No one who had studied his "Why?" ^" "Because—because— character could be much surprised at the confession every sup- "Well, because of what?" cried the orderly, im- that was extorted from him, that for the true patiently. posed kilogram that he had ever sold and twenty "Because I think, perhaps—I am not quite sure weight was only 750 grams, or just five to scale is quite correct." per cent. less than it ought have been. i—perhaps the not The words were not uttered before the professor, The professor, however, had ascertained all that to estimating his comet at a fierce as a tiger, had rushed at the Jew, had seized he wanted know. By weight, he had him by the throat, and was shaking him till he was third as much again as its proper always variance black in the face. found that his calculations were at "Help! help!" screamed Hakkabut. "I shall be with the observed situation of the satellite, which strangled." was immediately influenced by the mass of its "Kascall consummate rascal! thief! villain!" the primary. of professor reiterated, and continued to shake the Jew But, now, besides enjoying the satisfaction furiously. having punished old Hakkabut, Rosette was able to Ben Zoof looked on and laughed, making no at- recommence his calculations with reference to the either elements of Nerina upon a correct basis, a task to tempt to interfere ; he had no sympathy with redoubled energy. of the two. which he devoted himself with The sound of the scuffling, however, drew the It will be easily imagined that Isaac Hakkabut, jeered un- attention of Servadae, who, followed by his com- thus caught in his own trap, was most attempted to panions, hastened to the scene. The combatants mercifully by those whom he had make Zoof, in particular, never were soon parted. "What is the meaning of all bis dupes. Ben was on his return to the this?" demanded the captain. wearied of telling him how As soon as the professor had recovered his breath, world he would be prosecuted for using false exhausted by his exertions, he said, "the old repro- weights, and would certainly become acquainted with the inside of a prison. Thus badgered, he bate, the rascal has cheated us ! His scale is wrong! secluded himself than ever in his dismal hole, He is a thief I" more Captain Servadae looked sternly at Hakkabut. never venturing, except when absolutely obliged, to this, Hakkabut? Is this a fact?" face the other members of the community. "How is " "No, no—yes—no, your Excellency, only On the 7th of October the comet re-entered the the telescopic planets, one of which had "He is a cheat, a thief!" roared the excited as- zone of tronomer. "His weights deceive!" been captured as a satellite, and the origin of the attributed "Stop, stop!" interposed Servadae; "let us hear. whole of which is most probably correctly " large planet that for- Tell me, Hakkabut to the disintegration of some between the orbits of Mars and "The scale lies! It cheats! it lies" roared the merly revolved Irrepressible Rosette. Jupiter. By the beginning of the following month traversed, and only two "Tell me, Hakkabut, I say," repeated Servadae. half of this zone had been The Jew only kept on stammering, "Yes—no— months remained before the collision with the earth temperature now rare- don't know." was to be expected. The was 12° far cold But heedless of any interruption, the professor ly below below zero, but that was too spring to permit the slightest symptoms of a thaw. The continued, "False weights ! That confounded sea remained as frozen as ever, and balance! It gave a false result! The mass was surface of the wrong! The observations contradicted the calcula- the two vessels, high up on their icy pedestals, re- of place! Yes, mained unaltered in their critical position. tions ; they were wrong ! She was out the question began out of place entirely." It was about this time that right to reopen "What!" cried Servadae and Procope in a breath, to be mooted whether it would not be "out of place?" some communication with the Englishmen at Gi- "Yes, completely," said the professor. braltar. Not that any doubt was entertained as to cope with the "Gallia out of place?" repeated Servadae, agitated their having been able successfully to but Captain Servadae, in a with alarm. rigors of the winter; generosity, represented "I did not say Gallia," replied Rosette, stamping way that did honor to his might have been their his foot impetuously; "I said Nerina." that, however uncourteous them that "Oh, Nerina," answered Servadae. "But what of former behavior, it was at least due to of the true condition of Gallia?" he inquired, still nervously. they should be informed learning; "Gallia, of course, is 'on her way to the earth. I things, which thev had no opportunity of they should be invited to co- told you so. But that Jew is a rascal!" and, moreover, that operate with the population of Nina's Hive, in the event of any measures being suggested by which CHAPTER XV the shock of the approaching collision could be mitigated. A JOURNEY AND A DISAPPOINTMENT The count and the lieutenant both heartily con- sentiments of humanity and was as the professor had said. From the day curred in Servadae's prudence, and all agreed that if the intercourse were ITthat -Isaac Hakkabut had entered upon his mei- time could be so suitable as eantile career, his dealings had all been carried to be opened at all, no surface of the sea presented on by a system of false weight. That deceitful the present, while the 182 AMAZING STORIES a smooth and solid footing. After a thaw should set avowed rivals? Conceal it as they would, a coolnesa intimacy which, in, neither the yacht nor the tartan could be reck- was undeniably stealing over an oned on for service, and it would be inexpedient to though it could never be called affectionate, had make use of the steam launch, for which only a few been uniformly friendly and courteous. tons of coal had been reserved, just sufficient to Under these circumstances, it was not surprising convey them to Gourbi Island when the occasion that Hector Servadac should not have confided to could should arise. As to the yawl, which, transformed the count a project which, wild as it was, unacknowledged into a sledge, had performed so successful a trip scarcely have failed to widen the to Formentera, the absence of wind would make that breach that was opening in their friendship. quite unavailable. It was true that with the return The project was the annexation of Ceuta to the of summer temperature, there would be certain to French dominion. The Englishmen, rightly enough, be a derangement in the atmosphere of Gallia, which had continued to occupy the fragment of Gibraltar, island of would result in wind, but for the present the air and their claim was indisputable. But the the was altogether too still for the yawl to have any Ceuta, which before the shock had commanded occupied prospects of making its way to Gibraltar. opposite side of the strait, and had been The only question remaining was the possibility by Spaniards, had since been abandoned, and was of going on foot. The distance was somewhere about therefore free to the first occupant who should lay the 240 miles. Captain Servadac declared himself quite claim to it. To plant the tricolor upon it, in equal to the undertaking. To skate sixty or seventy name of France, was now the cherished wish of miles a day would be nothing, he said, to a practiced Servadae's heart. skater like himself. The whole journey there and "Who knows," he said to himself, "whether Ceuta, back might be performed in eight days. Provided on its return to earth, may not occupy a grand and with a compass, a sufficient supply of cold meat, and commanding situation? What a proud thing it !" a spirit lamp, by which he might boil his coffee, he would be to have secured its possesson to France was perfectly sure he should, without the least diffi- Next morning, as soon as they had taken their culty, accomplish an enterprise that chimed in so brief farewell of their friends, and were fairly out exactly with his adventurous spirit. of sight of the shore, Servadac imparted his design Equally urgent were both the count and the lieu- to Ben Zoof, who entered into the project with the tenant to be allowed to accompany him; nay, they greatest zest, and expressed himself delighted, not to dominions of even offered to go instead ; but Servadac, expressing only at the prospect of adding the himself as most grateful for their consideration, de- his beloved country, but of stealing a march upon: clined their offer, and avowed his resolution of tak- England. ing no other companion than his own orderly. Both travelers were warmly clad, the orderly's Highly delighted at his master's decision, Ben knapsack containing all the necessary provisions. Zoof expressed his satisfaction at the prospect of The journey was accomplished without special in- "stretching his legs a bit," declaring that nothing cident; halts were made at regular intervals, for the could induce him to permit the captain to go alone. purpose of taking food and rest. The temperature endurable, and There was no delay. The departure was fixed for by night as well as by day was quite thanks to the following morning, the 2nd of November. on the fourth afternoon after starting, the straight course which their compass enabled 'Although it is not to be questioned that a genuine maintain, the adventurers found themselves desire of doing an act of kindness to his fellow- them to miles Ceuta. creatures was a leading motive of Servadae's pro- within a few of Zoof caught sight of the rock posed visit to Gibraltar, it must be owned that an- As soon as Ben horizon, he was all excitement. Just other idea, confided to nobody, least of all to Count on the western into action, he Timaseheff, had been conceived in the brain of the as if he were in a regiment going "squares" and worthy Gascon. Ben Zoof had an inkling that his talked wildly about "columns" and demonstra- master was "up to some other little game," when, "charges." The captain, although less reach the rock. They just before starting, he asked him privately whether tive, was hardly less eager to till they there was a French tricolor among the stores. "I be- both pushed forward with all possible speed half of the shore, when lieve so," said the orderly. were within a mile and a vision, stopped sud- "Then don't say a word to anyone, but fasten it Ben Zoof, who had a very keen was sure he eould see some- up tight in your knapsack." denly, and said that he on top of the island. Ben Zoof found the flag, and folded it up as he thing moving "Never mind, Jet us hasten on," said Servadac. A was directed. Before proceeding to explain this carried over another mile, when somewhat enigmatical conduct of Servadac, it is few minutes them again. necessary to refer to a certain physiological fact, Ben Zoof stopped it, Zoof?" asked the captain. coincident but unconnected with celestial pheno- "What is Ben looks to like a man on a rock, waving his mena, originating entirely in the frailty of human "It me in the air," said the orderly. nature. The nearer that Gallia approached the earth, arms muttered Servadac; "I hope we the more a sort of reserve began to spring up be- "Plague on it!" Again they went on; hat soon tween the captain and Count Timaseheff. Though are not too late." stopped for the third time. they could not be said to be conscious of it, the Ben Zoof "It is semaphore, sir; I see it quite distinctly." remembrance of their former rivalry, so completely a he was not mistaken ; it had been a telegraph buried in oblivion for the last year and ten months, And motion that had caught his eye. was insensibly recovering its hold upon their minds, in on it!" repeated the captain. and the question was all but coming to the surface "Plague "Too late, sir, do you think?" said Ben Zoof. as to what would happen if, on their return to earth, Zoof; if that's a telegraph—and there the handsome Madame de L should still be free. "Yes, Ben it somebody has been before us and From companions in peril, would they not again be is no doubt of — OFF ON A COMET 183 erected it; and, moreover, if it is moving, there and Baltimore, the two gallant officers made use of must be somebody working it now." the semaphore to communicate their well-digested He was keenly disappointed. Looking towards moves. the north, he could distinguish Gibraltar faintly The major stood waiting for his visitor to speak. visible in the extreme distance, and upon the sum- "Major Oliphant, I believe?" said Servadac, with mit of the rock both Ben Zoof and he fancied they a courteous bow. could make out another semaphore, giving signals, "Yes, sir, Major Oliphant, officer in command of no doubt, in response to the one here. the garrison at Ceuta," was the Englishman's reply. the "Yes, it is only too clear ; they have already occu- "And to whom," he added, "may I have honor pied it, and established their communications," said of speaking?" Servadac. "To Captain Servadac, the governor general of "And what are we to do, then?" asked Ben Zoof. Gallia." "We must pocket our chagrin, and put as good a "Indeed!" said the major, with a supercilious face on the matter as we can," replied the captain. look. "But perhaps there are only four or five English- "Allow me to express my surprise," resumed the men to protect the place," said Ben Zoof, as if captain, "at seeing you installed as commanding of- meditating an assault. ficer upon what I have always understood to be "No, no, Ben Zoof," answered Servadac; "we Spanish soil. May I demand your claim to your must do nothing rash. We have had our warning, position?" and unless* our representations can induce them to "My claim is that of first occupant." yield their position, we must resign our hope." "But do you not think that the party of Spaniards Thus discomfited, they had reached the foot of now resident with me may at some future time as- the rock, when all at once, like a "Jack-in-the-box," sert a prior right to the proprietorship?" a sentinel started up before them with the chal- "I think not, Captain Servadac." persisted captain. lenge : "But why not?" the "Who goes there?" "Because these very Spaniards have, by formal "Friends. Vive la France!" cried the captain. contract, made over Ceuta, in its integrity, to the "Hurrah for England!" replied the soldier. British government." By this time four other men had made their ap- Servadac uttered an exclamation of surprise. pearance from the upper part of the rock. "And as the price of that important cession," "What do you want?" asked one of them, whom continued Major Oliphant, "they have received a Servadac remembered to have seen before at Gi- fair equivalent in British gold." braltar. "Ah!" cried Ben Zoof, "that accounts for that "Can I speak to your commanding officer?" Ser- fellow Negrete and his people having such a lot of vadac inquired. money." "Which?" said the man. "The officer in command Servadac was silent. It had become clear to his of Ceuta?" mind what had been the object of that secret visit "Yes, if there is one," to Ceuta which he had heard of as being made by "I will acquaint him with your arrival," answered the two English officers. The arguments that he the Englishman, and disappeared. had intended to use had completely fallen through; carefully to In a few minutes the commanding officer, attired all that he had now to do was prevent his disappointed project. in full uniform, was seen descending to the shore. any suspicion of ask, to It was Major Oliphant himself. "May I be allowed to Captain Servadac, the honor this visit?" Servadac could no longer entertain a doubt that what I am indebted for of asked Oliphant presently. the Englishmen had forestalled him in the occupa- Major have come, Major Oliphant, in the hope of do- tion of Ceuta. Provisions and fuel had evidently "I and your companions service," replied been conveyed thither in the boat from Gibraltar ing you a rousing himself from his reverie. before the sea had frozen, and a solid casemate, Servadac, indeed!" replied the major, as though he hollowed in the rock, had afforded Major Oliphant "Ah, quite independent of all services from and his contingent ample protection from the rigor felt himself exterior sources. of the winter. The ascending smoke that rose above thought major, that it was not unlikely you the rock was sufficient evidence that good fires were "I were in ignorance of the fact that both Ceuta and still kept up; the soldier appeared to have thriven traversing the solar regions on well on what, no doubt, had been a generous diet, Gibraltar have been surface of comet." and the major himself, although he would scarcely the a smiled incredulously; but Servadac, have been willing to allow it, was slightly stouter The major than before. nothing daunted, went on to detail the results of the Being only about twelve miles distant from collision between the comet and the earth, adding immediate prospect of Gibraltar, the little garrison at Ceuta had felt itself that, as there was the almost concussion, it occurred to him that it by no means isolated in its position; but by fre- another had population of quent excursions across the frozen strait, and by might be advisable for the whole measures the constant use of the telegraph, had kept up their Gallia to unite in taking precautionary communication with their fellow-countrymen on the for the common welfare. other island. Colonel Murphy and the major had "In fact, Major Oliphant," he said in conclusion, not even been forced to forego the pleasures of the "I am here to inquire whether you and your friends chessboard. The game that had been interrupted by would be disposed to join us in our present quar- Captain Servadac's former visit was not yet con- ters." cluded; but, like the two American clubs that played "I am obliged to you, Captain Servadac," their celebrated game in 1S4G between Washington answered the major stiffly, "but we have not the 18 AMAZING STORIES

slightest intention of abandoning our post. We in the least to make it certain that a like immunity have received no government orders to that effect; from harm would attend the second. The previous indeed, we have received no orders at all. Our own escape was doubtless owing to some slight, though dispatch to the First Lord of the Admiralty still unaccountable, mollification in the rate of motion; awaits the mail." but whether the inhabitants of the earth had fared "But allow me to repeat," insisted Servadac, "that so fortunately, was a question that had still to be we are no longer on the earth, although we expect determined. to come in contact with it again in about eight The day following Servadac's return, he and the weeks." count and Lieutenant Procope met by agreement "I have no doubt," the major answered, "that in the cave, formally to discuss what would be the England will make every effort to reclaim us." most advisable method of proceeding under their Servadac felt perplexed. It was quite evident that present prospects. Ben Zoof was, as a matter of Major Oliphant had not been convinced of the truth course, allowed to be present, and Professor Rosette of one syllable of what he had been Baying. had been asked to attend; but he declined on the "Then I am to understand that you are deter- plea of taking no interest in the matter. Indeed, mined to retain your two garrisons here and at Gib- the disappearance of his moon had utterly discon- raltar?" asked Servadac, with one last effort at certed him, and the probability that he should soon persuasion. lose his comet also, plunged him into an excess of "Certainly; these two posts command 'the en- grief which he preferred to bear in solitude. trance of the Mediterranean." Although the barrier of cool reserve was secretly "But supposing there is no longer any Mediter- increasing between the captain and the count, they ranean?" retorted the captain, growing impatient. scrupulously concealed any outward token of their "Oh, England will always take care of that," was inner feelings, and without any personal bias ap- Major Oliphant's cool reply. "But excuse me," he plied their best energies to the discussion of the added presently; "I see that Colonel Murphy has question which was of such mutual, nay, of such just telegraphed his next move. Allow me to wish universal interest. you good afternoon." Servadac was the first to speak. "In fifty-one And without further parley, followed by his sol- days, if Professor Rosette has made no error in his diers, he retired into the casement, leaving Captain calculations, there is to be a recurrence of collision Servadac gnawing his mustache with mingled rage between this comet and the earth. The inquiry that and mortification. we have now to make is whether we are prepared for !" "A fine piece of business we have made of this the coming shock. I ask my=D't. and I ask you, said Ben Zoof, when he found himself alone with his whether it is in our power, by any means, to avert master. the evil consequences that are only too likely to "We will make our way back at once," replied follow?" Captain Servadac. Count Timascheff, in a voice that seemed to thrill

"Yes, the sooner the better, with our tails be- with solemnity, said : "In such events we are at the tween our iegs," rejoined the orderly, who this time disposal of an over-ruling Providence; human pre- felt no inclination to start off to the march of the cautions cannot sway the Divine will." Algerian zephyrs. And so the French tricolor re- "But with the most profound reverence for the turned as it had set out—in Ben Zoof's knapsack. will of Providence," replied the captain, "I beg to On the eighth evening after starting, the travel- submit that it is our duty to devise whatever means ers again set foot on the volcanic promontory just we can to escape the threatening mischief. Heaven in time to witness a great commotion. helps them that help themselves." Paimyrin Rosette wr as in a furious rage. He had "And what means have you to suggest, may I completed all his calculations about Nerina, but that ask?" said the count, with a faint accent of satire. perfidious satellite had totally disappeared. The Servadac was forced to acknowledge that nothing astronomer was frantic at the loss of his moon. tangible had hitherto presented itself to his mind. Captured probably by some larger body, it was re- "I don't want to intrude," observed Ben Zoof, volving in its proper zone of the minor planets^ "but I don't understand why such learned gentle- men as you cannot make the comet go where you

. CHAPTER XVI want it to go." "You are mistaken, Ben Zoof, about our learn- BOLD PROPOSITION A ing," said the captain; "even Professor Rosette, iN his return Servadac communicated to the with all his learning, has not a shadow of power to ^ count the result of his expedition, and, prevent the comet and the earth from knocking though perfectly silent on the subject of his against each other," personal project, did not conceal the fact that the "Then I cannot see what is the use of all this Spaniards, without the smallest right, had sold learning," the orderly replied. Ceuta to the English. "One great use of learning," said Count Timas- Having refused to quit their post, the English- cheff, with a smile, "is to make us know our own men had virtually excluded themselves from any ignorance." further consideration; they had had their warning, While this conversation had been going on, Lieu- and must now take the consequences of their own in- tenant Procope had been sitting in thoughtful sil- credulity. ence. Looking up, he now said, "Incident to this ex- Although it had proved that not a single creature pected shock, there may be a variety of dangers. If, either at Gourbi Island, Gibraltar, Ceuta, Madalena, gentlemen, you will allow me, I will enumerate or Formentera had received any injury whatever at them; and we shall, perhaps, by taking them seria- the time of the first concussion, there was nothing tim, be in a better position to judge whether we can. OFF ON A COMET 185 siK'tessf Lilly grapple with them, or in any way miti- atoms, should be left as it were upon the summit gate their consequences." of an enormous mountain (for such to all intents There was a general attitude of attention. It was and purposes Gallia would be), 4S0 miles above the surprising how calmly they proceeded to discuss level of the surface of the globe, without a particle the circumstances that looked so threatening and of air to breathe." "But would not our chances of escape be consid- "First of all," resumed the lieutenant, "we will- erably better," asked Count Timascheff, "in the specify the different ways in which the shock may event of either of the comet's poles being the point happen." of contact?" "And the prime fact to be remembered," inter- "Taking the combined velocity into account," posed Servadac, "is that the combined velocity of answered the lieutenant, "I confess that I fear the the two bodies will be about 21,000 miles an hour." violence of the shock will be too great to permit our "Express speed, and no mistake!" muttered Ben destruction to be averted." Zoof. A general silence ensued, which was broken by the "Just so," assented Procope. "Now, the two lieutenant himself. "Even if none of these contin- bodies impinge may either directly or obliquely. If gencies occur in the way we have contemplated, I am the impact is sufficiently oblique, Gallia may do driven to the suspicion that we shall be burnt precisely what she did before; she may graze the alive." earth; she may, or she may not, carry off a por- "Burnt alive!" they all exclaimed in a chorus of tion of the earth's atmosphere and substance, and horror. so she may float away again into space; but her "Yes. If the deductions of modern science be orbit would undoubtedly be deranged, and if we true, the speed of the comet, when suddenly checked, survive the shock, we shall have small chance of ever will be transmuted into heat, and that heat will be returning to the world of our fellow-creatures." so intense that the temperature of the comet will be "Professor Rosette, I suppose," Ben Zoof re- raised to some millions of degrees." marked, "would pretty soon find out all about that." No one having anything definite to allege in reply "But we will leave this hypothesis," said the lieu- to Lieutenant Procope's forebodings, they all re- tenant; "our own experience has sufficiently shown lapsed into silenee. Presently Ben Zoof asked us its advantages and its disadvantages. We will whether it was not possible for the comet to fall into proceed to consider the infinitely more serious alter- the middle of the Atlantic. native of direct impact; of a shock that would hurl Procope shook his head. "Even ao, we should only the comet straight on to the earth, to which it would be adding the fate of drowning to the list of our become attached," other perils." "A great wart upon her face!" said Ben Zoof, "Then, as I understand," said Captain Servadac, laughing. "in whatever way or in whatever place the concus- The captain held up his finger to his orderly, sion occurs, we must be either crushed, suffocated, making him understand that he should hold his roasted, or drowned. Is that your conclusion, lieu- tongue. tenant?" "It is, I presume, to be taken for granted," con- "I confess I see no other alternative," answered tinued Lieutenant Procope, "that the mass of the Procope, calmly. earth is comparatively so large that, in the event "But isn't there another thing to be done?" said of a direct collision, her own motion would not be Ben Zoof. sensibly retarded, and that she would carry the "What do you mean?" his master asked. comet along with her, as part of herself." "Why, to get off the comet before the shock "Very little question of that, I should think," said comes." Servadac. "How could you get off Gallia?" "Well, then," the lieutenant went on, "what part "That I can't say," replied the orderly. of this comet of ours will be the part to come into "I am not sure that that could not be accortt- collision with the earth? It may be the equator, plished," said the lieutenant. where we are; it may be at the exactly opposite All eyes in a moment were riveted upon him, as, point, at our antipodes; or it may be at either pole. with his head resting on his hands, he was mani- In case, it any seems hard to foresee whence there festly cogitating a new idea. "Yes, I think it could is to come the faintest chance of deliverance." be accomplished," he repeated. "The project may "Is the case so desperate?" asked Servadac. appear extravagant, but I do not know why it should "I will teiT you why it seems so. If the side of be impossible. Ben Zoof has hit the right nail on the the comet on which we are resident impinges on the head; we must try and leave Gallia before the earth, it stands to reason that we must be crushed shock." to atoms by the violence of the concussion." "Leave Gallia! How?" said Count Timascheff. "Regular mincemeat?" said Ben Zoof, whom no The lieutenant did not at once reply. He continued admonitions could quite reduce to silence. pondering for a time, and at last said, slowly and "And if," said the lieutenant, after a moment's distinctly, "By making a balloon!" pause, and—the slightest possible frown at the in- Servadac's heart sank. terruption "and if the collision should occur at "A balloon!" he exclaimed. "Out of the ques- our antipodes, the sudden check to the velocity of tion! Balloons are exploded things. You hardly the comet would be quite equivalent to a shock in find them in novels. Balloon, indeed!" situ; and, another thing, we should run the risk of "Listen to me," replied Procope. "Perhaps I can suffocated, being for all our comet's atmosphere convince you that my idea is not so chimerical as would be assimilated with the terrestrial atmos- you imagine." And, knitting his brow, he proceed- phere, and we, supposing we were not dashed to ed to establish the feasibility of his plan. "If we 186 AMAZING STORIES can ascertain the precise moment when the shock is its mysteries, the task of joining together the cas- to happen, and can succeed in launching ourselves ing was soon complete. Isaac Hakkabut and the a sufficient time beforehand into Gallia's atmos- professor were the only two members of the com- phere, I believe it will transpire that this atmos- munity who took no part in this somewhat tedious phere will amalgamate with that of the earth, and proceeding. that a balloon whirled along by the combined veloc- A month passed away, but Servadac found no ity would glide into the mingled atmosphere and re- opportunity of getting at the information he had main suspended in midair until the shock of the col- pledged himself to gain. On the sole occasion when lision is over." he had ventured to broach the subject with the as- Count Timaseheff reflected for a minute, and tronomer, he had received for answer that as there said, "I think, lieutenant, I understand your project. was no hurry to get back to the earth, there need transit. The scheme seems tenable ; and I shall be ready to be no concern about any dangers of co-operate with you, to the best of my power, in Indeed, as time passed on, the professor seemed putting it into execution." to become more and more inaccessible. A pleasant "Only, remember," continued Procope, "there are temperature enabled him to live entirely in his ob- many chances to one against our success. One in- servatory, from which intruders were rigidly shut stant's obstruction and stoppage in our passage, and out. But Servadac bided his time. He grew more our balloon is burnt to ashes. Still, reluctant as I and more impressed with the importance of finding am to acknowledge it, I confess that I feel our sole out the exact moment at which the impact would hope of safety rests in our getting free from this take place, but was content to wait for a promising comet." opportunity to put any fresh questions on the sub- "If the chances were ten thousand to one against ject to the too reticent astronomer. us," said Servadac, "I think the attempt ought to be Meanwhile, the earth's disc was daily increasing made." in magnitude ; the eomet traveled 50,000,000 leagues "But have we hydrogen enough to inflate a bal- during the month, at the close of which it was not loon?" asked the count. more than 78,000,000 leagues from the sun. "Hot air will be all that we shall require," the A thaw had now fairly set in. The breaking up of lieutenant answered; "we are only contemplating the frozen ocean was a magnificent spectacle, and about an hour's journey." "the great voice of the sea," as the whalers graphic- "Ah, a fire-balloon! A montgolfier!" cried Ser- ally describe it, was heard in all its solemnity. Little vadac. "But what are you going to do for a cas- streams of water began to trickle down the de- ing?" clivities of the mountain and along the shelving "I have thought of that. We must cut it out of the shore, only to be transformed, as the melting of the sails of the Dobrytia; they are both light and snow continued, into torrents or cascades. Light strong," rejoined the lieutenant. Count TimaschefE vapors gathered on the horizon, and clouds were complimented the lieutenant upon his ingenuity, and formed and carried rapidly along by breezes to Ben Zoof could not resist bringing the meeting to a which the Gallian atmosphere had long been unac- conclusion by a ringing cheer. customed. All these were doubtless hut the prelude Truly daring was the plan of which Lieutenant to atmospheric disturbances of a more startling Procope had thus become the originator; but the character; but as indications of returning spring, very existence of them all was at stake, and the they were greeted with a welcome which no appre- design must be executed resolutely. For the suc- hensions for the future could prevent being glad and cess of the enterprise it was absolutely necessary hearty. to know, almost to a minute, the precise time at A double disaster was the inevitable consequence which the collision would occur, and Captain Ser- of the thaw. Both the schooner and the tartan were vadac undertook the task, by gentle means or by entirely destroyed. The basement of the icy pedes- stern, of extracting the secret from the professor. tal on which the ships had been upheaved was grad- To Lieutenant Procope himself was entrusted the ually undermined, like the icebergs of the Arctic superintendence of the construction of the mont- Ocean, by warm currents of water, and on the night golfier, and the work was begun at once. It was to of the 12th the huge block collapsed en masse, so be large enough to carry the whole of the twenty- that on the following morning nothing remained of three residents in the volcano, and, in order to the Dobryna and the Hansa except the fragments provide the means of floating aloft long enough to scattered on the shore. give time for selecting a proper place for descent, Although certainly expected, the catastrophe the lieutenant was anxious to make it carry enough could not fail to cause a sense of general depression. hay or straw to maintain combustion for a while, Well-nigh one of their last ties to Mother Earth and keep up the necessary supply of heated air. had been broken; the ships were gone, and they had

The sails of the Dobryna, which had all been only a balloon to replace them 1 carefully stowed away in the Hive, were of a tex- To describe Isaac Hakkabut's rage at the de- ture unusually close, and quite capable of being struction of the tartan would be impossible! His made airtight by means of a varnish, the ingredi- oaths were simply dreadful; his imprecations on ents of which were rummaged out of the promiscu- the accursed race were full of wrath. He swore that ous stores of the tartan. The lieutenant himself Servadac and his people were responsible for his traced out the pattern and cut out the strips, and loss; he vowed that they should be sued and made all hands were employed in seaming them together. to pay him damages ; he asserted that he had been In was hardly the work for little fingers, but Nina brought from Gourbi Island only to be plundered; persisted in accomplishing her own share of it. in fact, he became so intolerably abusive, that Ser- The Russians were quite at home at occupation of vadac threatened to put him into irons unless he this sort, and having initiated the Spaniards into conducted himself properly; whereupon the Jew, OFF ON A COMET 187 finding that the captain was in earnest, and would was not revolving round the comet, but was gradu- not hesitate to carry the threat into effect, was fain ally retreating into space. Whether it had carried to hold his tongue, and slunk hack into his dim hole. with it any portion of atmosphere, whether it pos- By the 14th the balloon was finished, and, care- sessed any other condition for supporting life, and fully sewn and well varnished as it had been, it was whether it was likely ever again to approach to the really a very substantial structure. It was covered earth, were all questions that were beyond means with a network that had been made from the light to determine. For themselves the ail-important rigging of the yacht, and the car, composed of problem was—what effect would the rending as- wicker-work that had formed partitions in the hold sunder of the comet have upon its rate of progress? of the Haiisa, was quite commodious enough to hold and as they were already conscious of a further in- the twenty-three passengers it was intended to crease of muscular power, and a fresh diminution eonvey. No thought had been bestowed upon com- of specific gravity, Servadac and .his associates fort or convenience, as the ascent was to last for so eould not but wonder whether the alteration in the short a time, merely long enough for making the mass of the comet would not result in its missing transit from atmosphere to atmosphere. the expected coincidence with the earth altogether. The necessity was becoming more and more urg- Although he professed himself incompetent to ent to get at the true hour of the approaching con- pronounce a decided opinion, Lieutenant Procope tact, but the professor seemed to grow more obstin- manifestly inclined to the belief that no alteration ate than ever in his resolution to keep his secret. would ensue in the rate of Gallia's velocity; but On the 15th the comet crossed the orbit of Mars, Rosette, no doubt, could answer the question di- at the safe distance of 56,000,000 leagues ; but dur- rectly, and the time had now arrived in which he ing that night the community thought that their must be compelled to divulge the precise moment of last hour had taken them unawares. The. volcano collision. rocked and trembled with the convulsidns of in- But the professor was in the worst of tempers. ternal disturbances, and Servadac and his com- Generally taciturn and morose, he was more than panions, convinced that the mountain was doomed usually uncivil whenever any one ventured to speak to some sudden disruption, rushed into the open air. to him. The loss of his telescope had doubtless a The first object that caught their attention as great deal to do with his ill-humor; but the cap- they emerged upon the open rocks was the unfortu- tain drew the most favorable conclusions from nate professor, who was scrambling down the Rosette's continued irritation. Had the comet been mountain-side, piteously displaying a, fragment of in any way projected from its course, so as to be his shattered telescope. likely to fail in coming into contact with the earth, It was no time for condolence. the professor would have been quite unable to con- A new marvel arrested every eye. A fresh satel- ceal his satisfaction. But they required to know lite, in the gloom of night, was shining conspicu- more than the general truth, and felt that they had ously before them. no time to lose in getting at the exact details. That satellite was a part of Gallia itself! The desired opportunity soon came. By the expansive action of the inner heat, Gallia, On the 18th, Rosette was overheard in furious al- like Gambart's comet, had been severed in twain; tercation with Ben Zoof. The orderly had been an enormous fragment had been detached and taunting the astronomer with the mutilation of his launched into space! little comet. A fine thing, he said, to split in two like The fragment included Ceuta and Gibraltar, with a child's toy. It had cracked like a dry nut; and the two English garrisons! mightn't one as well live upon an exploding bomb? —with much more to the same effect. The pro- CHAPTER XVII fessor, by way of retaliation, had commenced sneer- ing at the "prodigious" mountain of THE VENTURE MADE Montmartre, and the dispute was beginning to look serious when would be the consequences of this sud- Servadac entered. WHAT3en and complete disruption, Servadac and Thinking he could turn the wrangling to some his people hardly dared to think. good account, so as to arrive at the information he The first change that came under their observa- was so anxiously seeking, the captain pretended to tion was the rapidity of the sun's appearances and espouse the views of his orderly; he consequently disappearances, forcing them to the conviction that brought upon himself the full force of the profes- although the comet still rotated on its axis from sor's wrath. east to west, yet the period of its rotation had been Rosette's language became more and more violent, diminished by about one-half. Only six hours in- till Servadac, feigning to be provoked beyond en- stead of twelve elapsed between sunrise and sun- durance, cried: rise; three hours after rising in the west the sun "You forget, sir, that you are addressing the Gov- was sinking again in the east. ernor-General of Gallia." "We are coming to something!" exclaimed Ser- "Governor-General! humbug I" roared Rosette. vadac "We have got a year of something like 2,880 "Gallia is my comet!" days." "I deny it," said Servadac. "Gallia has lost its "I shouldn't think it would be an easy matter to chance of getting back to the earth. Gallia has noth- find saints enough for such a calendar as that!" ing to do with you. Gallia is mine; and you must said Ben Zoof. submit to the government which I please to ordain." Servadac laughed, and remarked that they should "And who told you that Gallia is not going back have the professor talking about the 230th of June, to the earth?" asked the professor, with a look of and the 234th of December. withering scorn. It soon became evident that the detached portion "Why, isn't her masa diminished? Isn't she split IS AMAZING STORIES

in hall'? Isn't her velocity all altered?" demanded The count and the lieutenant, of colder and less the captain. demonstrative temperament, alike seemed to realize "And pray who told you this?" again said the the possible perils of the undertaking, but even they professor, with a sneer. were determined to gut a bold face upon every dif- "Everybody. Everybody knows it, of course," ficulty. replied Servadac. The sea had now become navigable, and three "Everybody is very clever. And you always were voyages were made to Gourbi Island in the steam a very clever scholar too. We remember that of old, launch, consuming the last of their little reserve of don't we?" coal. "Sir!" The first voyage had been made by Servadac with "You nearly mastered the first elements of server al of the sailors. They found the gourbi and scienee, didn't you?" the adjacent building quite uninjured by the sever- "Sir!" ity of the winter weather; numbers of little rivulets "A credit to your class I" intersected the pasture-land! new plants were "Hold your tongue, sir!" bellowed the captain springing up under the influence of the equatorial again, as if his anger was uncontrollable. sun, and the luxuriant foliage was tenanted by the "Not I," said the professor. birds which had flown back from the volcano. Sum- "Hold your tongue!" repeated Servadac. mer had almost abruptly succeeded to winter, and "Just because the mass is altered you think the the days, though only three hours long, were in- velocity is altered?" tensely hot. "Hold you tongue!" cried the captain, louder than Another of the voyages to the island had been to ever. collect the dry grass and straw which was necessary "What has mass to do with the orbit? Of how for inflating the balloon. Had the balloon been less many comets do you know the mass, and yet you cumbersome it would have been conveyed to the know their movements ? Ignorance !" shouted island, whence the start would have been effected; Rosette. but as it was, it was more convenient to bring the "Insolence!" retorted Servadac. combustible material to the balloon. Ben Zoof, really thinking that his master was The last of the coal having been consumed, the angry, made a threatening movement towards the fragments of the shipwrecked vessels had to be professor. used day by day for fuel. Hakkabut began making "Touch me if you dare !" screamed Rosette, draw- a great hubbub when he found that they were burn- ing himself up to the fullest height his diminutive ing some of the spars of the Hansa; but he was ef- figure would allow. "You shall answer for your con- fectually silenced by Ben Zoof, who told him that duct before a court of justice!" if he made any more fuss, he should be compelled "Where? On Galiia?" asked the captain. to pay 50,000 francs for a balloon-ticket, or else he "No; on the earth." should be left behind. "The earth! Pshaw! You know we shall never By Christmas Day everything was in readiness get there ; our velocity is changed." for immediate departure. The festival was observed "On the earth," repeated the professor, with de- with a solemnity still more marked than the an- cision. niversary of the preceding year. Every one looked "Trash!" cried Ben Zoof. "The earth will be too forward to spending New Year's Day in another far off!" sphere altogether, and Ben Zoof had already prom- "Not too far off for us to come across her orbit at ised Pablo and Nina all sort3 of New Year's gifts. 42 minutes and 35.6 seconds past two o'clock on the It may seem strange, but the nearer the critical morning of this coming 1st of January." moment approached, the less Hector Servadac and "Thanks, my dear professor—many thanks. You Count Timascheff had to say to each other on the subject. Their mutual reserve became more ap- have given me all the information I required;" the two years were and, with a low bow and a gracious smile, the cap- parent; the experiences of last dream; the fair tain withdrew. The orderly made an equally polite fading from their minds like a and original bow, and followed his master. The professor, com- image that had been the cause of their pletely nonplussed, was left alone. rivalry was ever rising, as a vision, between them. turn his Thirteen days, then—twenty-six of the original The captain's thoughts began to to un- Gallian days, fifty-two of the present—was all the finished rondo; in his leisure moments, rhymes suit- impossible, were time for preparation that now remained. Every able and unsuitable, possible and preliminary arrangement was hurried on with the perpetually jingling in his imagination. He labored genius greatest earnestness. under the conviction that he had a work of he had left the earth, and a There was a general eagerness to be quit of Gal- to complete. A poet poet he must return. lia. Indifferent to the dangers that must necessarily attend a balloon ascent under such unparalleled cir- Count Timascheff's desire to return to the world cumstances, and heedless of Lieutenant Procope's was qtiite equaled by Lieutenant Procope's. The warning that the slightest check in their progress Russian sailors' only thought was to follow their Spaniards, though would result in instantaneous combustion, they all master, wherever he went. The been unconcerned to know that they seemed to conclude that it must be the simplest thing they would have possible to glide from one atmosphere to another, were to remain upon Gallia, were nevertheless look- degree of pleasure to revisit- so that they were quite sanguine as to the success- ing forward with some r ful issue of their enterprise. Captain Servadac ing the plains of Andalusia; and > ina and Pablo made a point of showing himself quite enthusiastic were only too delighted at the prospect of accom- protectors on any fresh excur- in his anticipations, and to Ben Zoof the going up panying their kind in a baloon was the supreme height of his ambition. sion whatever. ;

OFF ON A COMET 189

The only malcontent was Palyrin Rosette. Day "Merciful heavens!" began the Jew. and night he persevered in his astronomical pur- "Sixty-six pounds !" repeated Servadac. "We can suits, declared his intentoin of never abandoning his hardly carry ourselves; we can't have any dead comet, and swore positively that nothing should in- weight here. Piteh it out, man, pitch it out!" duce him to set foot in the car of the balloon. "God of Israel!" whined Hakkabut. The misfortune that had befallen his telescope "Out with it, I say!" cried Servadac. was a never-ending theme of complaint; and just "What, all my money, which I have saved so long, now, when Gallia was entering the narrow zone of and toiled for so hard?" shooting-stars, and new discoveries might have "It can't be helped," said the captain, unmoved. been within his reach, his loss made him more in- "Oh, your Excellency!" cried the Jew. consolable than ever. In sheer desperation, he en- "Now, old Nicodemus, listen to me," interposed deavored to increase the intensity of his vision by Ben Zoof ; "You just get rid of that pouch of yours, applying to his eyes some belladonna which he found or we will get rid of you. Take your choice. Quick, !" in the Dobryna's medicine chest; with heroic forti- or out you go tude he endured the tortures of the experiment, and The avaricious old man was found to value his life gazed up into the sky until he was nearly blind. But above his money; he made a lamentable outcry about it, but he unfastened his girdle at last, all in vain ; not a single fresh discovery rewarded and his sufferings. put it out of the car. No one was quite exempt from the feverish excite- Very different was the case with Palmyrin Ros- ment which prevailed during the last days of De- ette. He avowed over and over again his intention cember. Lieutenant Procope superintended his final of never quitting the nucleus of his comet. Why arrangements. The two lower masts of the schooner should he trust himself to a balloon, that would had been erected firmly on the shore, and formed blaze up like a piece of paper? Why should he leave supports for the balloon, which had been duly cov- the comet? Why should he not go once again upon ered with the netting, and was ready at any moment its surface into the far-off realms of space? to be inflated. The car was close at hand. Some His volubility was brought to a sudden check by inflated skins had been attached to its sides, so that Servadac's bidding two of the sailors, without more the balloon might float for a time, in the event of its ado, to take him in their arms and put him quietly descending in the sea at a short distance from the down at the bottom of the ear. shore. If unfortunately, it should come down in To the great regret of their owners, the two mid-ocean, nothing but the happy chance of some horses and Nina's pet goat were obliged to he left passing vessel could save them all from the cer- behind. The only creature for which there was tain fate of being drowned. found a place was the carrier-pigeon that had The 31st came. Twenty-four hours hence and the brought the professor's message to the Hive. Ser- balloon, with its large living freight, would be high vadac thought it might probably be of service in in the air. The atmosphere was less buoyant than carrying some communication to the earth. that of the earth, but no difficulty in ascending was When every one, except the captain and his ord- to be apprehended. erly, had taken their places, Servadac said, "Get in, Gallia was now within 96,000,000 miles of the Ben Zoof." sun, consequently not much more than 4,000,000 "After you, sir," said Ben Zoof, respectfully. miles from the earth; and this interval was being "No, no!" insisted Servadac; "the captain must !" diminished at the rate of nearly 208,000 miles an be the last to leave the ship hour, the speed of the earth being about 70,000 A moment's hesitation and the orderly clambered miles, that of the comet being little less than 138,- over the side of the car. Servadac followed. The 000 miles an hour. cords were cut. The balloon rose with stately calm- It was determined to make the start at two ness into the air. o'clock, three-quarters of an hour, or, to speak cor- rectly 42 minutes 35.6 seconds, before the time pre- CHAPTER XVIII dicted by the professor as the instant of collision. The modified rotation of the comet caused it to be daylight at the time. WHEN the balloon had reached an elevation of An hour previously the balloon was inflated with about 2,500 yards, Lieutenant Procope de- perfect success, and the car was securely attached termined to maintain it at that level. A wire- to the network. It only awaited the stowage of the work stove, suspended below the casing, and filled passengers. with lighted hay, served to keep the air in the in- Isaac Hakkabut was the first to take his place in terior at a proper temperature. the car. But scarcely had he done so, when Servadac Beneath their feet was extended the basin of the noticed that his waist was encompassed by an Gallian Sea. An inconsiderable speck to the north enormous girdle that bulged out to a very extra- marked the site of Gourbi Island. Ceuta and Gib- ordinary extent. "What's all this, Hakkabut?" he raltar, which might have been expected in the west, asked. had utterly disappeared. On the south rose the "It's only my little bit of money, your Excellency volcano, the extremity of the promontory that jutted my modest little fortune—a mere bagatelle," said out from the continent that formed the framework the Jew. of the sea; whilst in every direction the strange "And what may your little fortune weigh?" in- soil, with its commixture of tellurium and gold, quired the captain. gleamed under the sun's rays with a perpetual "Only about sixty-six pounds!" said Isaac. iridescence. "Sixty-six pounds 1" cried Servadac. "We haven't Apparently rising with them in their accent, ths reckoned for this." horizon was well-defined. The sky above them was 190 AMAZING STORIES perfectly clear; but away in the northwest, in op- and sleeping a watchful sleep; Spain, with Portugal position to the sun, floated a new sphere, so small as a pennant, like an unfurled banner, floated from that it could not be an asteroid, but like a dim the extremity of the continent; Turkey, like an in- meteor. It was the fragment that the internal con- solent cock, appeared to dutch the shores of Asia vulsion had rent from the surface of the comet, and with the one claw, and the land of Greece with the which was now many thousands of leagues away, other; Italy, as it were a foot and leg encased in a pursuing the new orbit into which it had been pro- tight-fitting boot, was juggling deftly with the is- jected. During the hours of daylight it was far lands of Sicily, Sardinia, and Corsica; Prussia, a from distinct, but after nightfall it would assume a formidable hatchet imbedded in the heart of Ger- definite luster. many, its edge just grazing the frontiers of France; The object of supreme interest, however, was the whilst France itself suggested a vigorous torso great expanse of the terrestrial disc, which was with Paris at its breast. rapidly drawing down obliquely towards them. It All at once Ben Zoof broke the silence: "Mont- totally eclipsed an enormous portion of the firma- martre! I see Montmartre!" And, smile at the ab- ment above, and approaching with an ever-increas- surdity as others might, nothing could induce the ing velocity, was now within half its average dis- worthy orderly to surrender his belief that he could tance from the moon. So close was it, that the two actually make out the features of his beloved home. poles could not be embraced in one focus. Irregu- The onfy individual whose soul seemed unstirred lar patches of greater or less brilliancy alternated by the approaching earth was Palmyrin Rosette. on its surface, the brighter betokening the contin- Leaning over the side of the car, he kept his eyes ents, the more somber indicating the oceans that fixed upon the abandoned comet, now floating about absorbed the solar rays. Above, there were broad a mile and a half below him, bright in the general white bands, darkened on the side averted from irradiation which wa3 flooding the surrounding the sun, exhibiting a slow but unintermittent move- space. ter- Chronometer in hand, Lieutenant Procope stood ment ; these were the vapors that pervaded the restrial atmosphere. marking the minutes and seconds as they fled ; and But as the aeronauts were being hurried on at a the stillness which had once again fallen upon them speed of 70 miles a second, this vague aspect of the all was only broken by his order to replenish the earth soon developed itself into definite outlines. stove, that the balloon might retain its necessary Mountains and plains were no longer confused, the level. Servadac and the count continued to gaze up- distinction between sea and shore was more plainly on the earth with an eagerness that almost amount- identified, and instead of being, as it were, depicted ed to awe. The balloon was slightly in the rear of on a map, the surface of the earth appeared as Gallia, a circumstance that augured somewhat fav- though modelled in relief. orably, because it might be presumed that if the Twenty-seven minutes past two, and Gallia is only comet preceded the balloon in its contact with the 72,000 miles from the terrestrial sphere; quicker earth, there would be a break in the suddenness of one atmosphere to the other. and quicker is the velocity ; ten minutes later, and transfer from they are only 36,000 miles apart! The next question of anxiety was, where would The whole configuration of the earth is clear. the balloon alight? If upon terra firma, would it be "Europe! Russia! France!" shouted Procope, the in a place where adequate resources for safety the ocean, would any count, and Servadac, almost in a breath. would be at hand? If upon from And they are not mistaken. The eastern hemis- passing vessel be within hail to rescue them, position? Truly, as the count ob- phere lies before them in the full blaze of light, and their critical served to his comrades, none but a Divine Pilot there is no possibility of error in distinguishing continent from continent. could steer them now. "Forty-two minutes past!" said the lieutenant, The surprise only kindled their emotion to yet and his voice seemed to thrill through the silence of keener intensity, and it would be hard to describe expectation. the excitement with which they gazed at the panora- There was not 20,000 miles between the comet ma that was before them. The crisis of peril was and the earth! close at hand, but imagination overleaped all con- The calculated time of impact was 2 hours, 47 sideration of danger; and everything was absorbed minutes, 35.6 seconds. Five minutes more and in the one idea that they were again within reach collision must ensue! of that circle of humanity from which they had so ? Just at this moment, Lieutenant supposed themselves severed forever. But was it Procope observed that the comet deviated sensibly And, truly, if they could have paused to study it, in an oblique course. Was it possible that after all that panorama of the states of Europe which was collision would not occur? outstretched before their eyes, was conspicuous for deviation, however, was not great; it did not the fantastic resemblances with which Nature on The any anticipation that Gallia would merely the one hand, and international relations on the justify graze the earth, as it had done before; it left it other, have associated them. There was England, certain that the two bodies would inevitably im- marching like some stately dame towards the east, trailing her ample skirts and coroneted with the pinge. Zoof, "this time shall cluster of her little islets; Sweden and Norway, "No doubt," said Ben we with their bristling spine of mountains, seemed like stick together." a splendid lion eager to spring down from the Another thought occurred. Was it not only too bosom of the ice-bound north; Russia, a gigantic likely that, in the fusion of the two atmospheres, polar bear, stood with its head towards Asia, its the balloon itself, in which they were being con- of left paw resting upon Turkey, its right upon Mount veyed, would be rent into ribbons, and every one .Caucasus; Austria resembled a huge cat curled up it3 passengers hurled into destruction, so that not a ! ;

OFF ON A COMET 191

Gallian should survive to tell the tale of their In fact, they were scarcely more than a mile from strange peregrinations? Mostaganem, and in the course of an hour, when Moments were precious; but Hector Servadac re-, they had all recovered from the bewilderment occa- solved that he would adopt a device to secure that sioned by the shock, they started off in a body and at least some record of their excursion in solar dis- made their way to the town. It was a matter of tances should survive themselves. extreme surprise to find no symptom of the least Tearing a leaf from his note-book, he wrote down excitement anywhere as they went along. The popu- the name of the comet, the list of the fragments of lation was perfectly calm; every one was pursuing the earth it had carried off, the names of his com- his ordinary avocation; the cattle were browsing panions, and the date of the comet's aphelion; and quietly upon the pastures that were moist with the having subscribed it with his signature, turned to dew of an ordinary January morning. It was about Nina and told her he must have the carrier-pigeon eight o'clock; the sun was rising in the east; noth- which was nestling in her bosom. ing could be noticed to indicate that any abnormal The child's eyes filled with tears; but she did not incident had either transpired or been expected by say a word, and imprinting a kiss upon its soft the inhabitants. As to a collision with a comet, plumage, she surrendered it at once, and the mes- there was not the faintest trace of any such pheno- sage was hurriedly fastened to its neck. The bird menon crossing men's minds, and awakening, as it wheeled round and round in a few circles that wid- surely would, a panic little short of the certified ened in their diameter, and quickly sunk to an al- approach of the millennium. titude in the comet's atmosphere mueh inferior to "Nobody expects us," said Servadac; "that is very the balloon. certain." Some minutes more were thus consumed and the "No, indeed," answered Ben Zoof, with a sigh; he interval of distance was reduced to less than 8,000 was manifestly disappointed that his return to Mos- miles. taganem was not welcomed with a triumphal re- The velocity became inconceivably great, but the ception. increased rate of motion was in no way perceptible They reached the Mascara gate. The first per- there was nothing to disturb the equilibrium of the sons that Servadac recognized were the two friends car in which they were making their aerial ad- that he had invited to be his seconds in the duel two venture. years ago, the colonel of the 2nd Fusiliers and the "Forty-six minutes!" announced the lieutenant. captain of the 8th Artillery. In return to his some- The glowing expanse of the earth's disc seemed what hesitating salutation, the colonel greeted him like a vast funnel, yawning to receive the comet and heartily, "Ah! Servadac, old fellow! is it you?" its atmosphere, balloon and all, into its open mouth. "I, myself," said the captain. "Forty-seven!" cried Procope. "Where on earth have you been to all this time? There was half a minute yet, A thrill ran through In the name of peace, what have you been doing with every vein. A vibration quivered through the at- yourself ?" mosphere. The balloon elongated to its utmost "You would never believe me, colonel," answered stretch, was manifestly being sucked into a vortex. Servadac, "if I were to tell you ; so on that point I Every passenger in the quivering car involuntarily had better hold my tongue." clung spasmodically to its sides, and as the two at- "Hang your mysteries!" said the colonel; "tell mospheres amalgamated, clouds accumulated in me, where have you been ?" heavy masses, involving all around in dense obscur- "No, my friend, excuse me," replied Servadac; ity, while flashes of lurid flame threw a weird glim- "but shake hands with me in earnest, that I may be mer on the scene. sure I am not dreaming." Hector Servadac had In a mystery every one found himself upon the made up his mind, and no amount of persuasion earth again. They could not explain it, hut here could induce him to divulge his incredible experi- they were once more upon terrestrial soil; in a ences. swoon they had left the earth, and in a similar Anxious to turn the subject, Servadac took the swoon they had come back! earliest opportunity of asking, "And what about ?" Of the balloon not a vestige remained, and con- Madame de L !" trary to previous computation, the comet had merely "Madame de L exclaimed the colonel tak- grazed the earth, and was traversing the regions ing the words out of his mouth; "the lady is mar- of space, again far away ried long ago; you did not suppose that she was going to wait for you. 'Oct of sight, out of mind/ CHAPTER XIX you know." "True," replied Servadac; and turning to the BACK AGAIN count he said, "Do you hear that? We shall not Algeria, captain?" have to fight our duel after all." IN"Yes, Ben Zoof, in Algeria; and not far from "Most happy to be excused," rejoined the count. Mostaganem." Such were the first words which, The rivals took each other by the hand, and were after their return to consciousness, were exchanged united henceforth in the bonds of a sincere and con- between Servadac and his orderly. fiding friendship. They had resided so long in the province that "An immense relief," said Servadac to himself, they could not for a moment be mistaken as to their "that I have no occasion to finish that confounded whereabouts, and although they were incapable of rondo!" clearing up the mysteries that shrouded the miracle, It was agreed between the captain and the count yet they were convinced at the first glance that they that it would be desirable in every way to maintain had been returned to the earth at the very identi- the most rigid silence upon the subject of the in- cal spot where they had quitted it, explicable phenomena which had come within their AMAZING STORIES

experience. It was to them both an unimportant minority de- a subject of the greatest per- clared themselves in his favor, plexity to find that the shores and a pamphlet obtained some of the Mediterranean had un- degree of notice, ridiculing the dergone no change, but they whole debate under the title of

coincided in the opinion that it "The History of an Hypothe- was prudent to keep their be- sis." In reply to this imperti- wilderment entirely to them- nent criticism of his labors, selves. Nothing induced them Rosette issued a rejoinder full to break their reserve. of the most vehement assevera- The very next day the small tion that a fragment of Gibral- community was broken up. tar was still traversing the The Dobryna's crew, with the regions of space, carrying thir- HOW THIS MAN count and the lieutenant, start- teen Englishmen upon its sur- ed for Russia, and the Span- face, and concluding by saying WON SUCCESS that it was the great disap- iards, provided, by the count's As an Electrical Expert liberality, with a competency pointment of his life that he that ensured them from want, had not been taken with them. were despatched to their native Pablo and little Nina were shores. The leave taking was adopted, the one by Servadac, accomplished by genuine tokens the other by the count, and un- of regard and goodwill. der the supervision of their For Isaac Hakkahut alone guardians, were well educated there was no feeling of regret. and cared for. Some years lat- Doubly ruined by the loss of his er, Colonel (no longer Cap- tarton, and by the abandon- tain) Servadac, his hair slight- ment of his fortune, he disap- ly streaked with grey, had the peared entirely from the scene. pleasure of seeing the hand- It is needless to say that no one some young Spaniard united in troubled himself to institute a marriage to the Italian, now search after him, and as Ben grown into a charming girl, Zoof sententiously remarked, upon whom the count bestowed

"Perhaps old Jehoram is mak- an ample dowry; the young ing money in America by ex- people's happiness in no way hibiting himself as the latest marred by the fact that they gCHfflL °f ENGINEERING arrival from a comet!" had not been destined, as once But seemed likely, to be the Adam Dept asm, 4IS Martin!! Streof. Milwaukee. Wis however great was the reserve which Captain Serva- and Eve of a new world. dae might make on his part, The career of the comet was nothing could induce Professor ever a mystery which neither Rosette to conceal his experi- Servadac nor his orderly could ences. In spite of the denial eliminate from the regions of which astronomer after astron- doubt. Anyhow, they were omer gave to the appearance of firmer and more confiding-

such a comet as Gallia at all, friends than ever. and of its being refused admis- One day, in the environs of sion to the catalogue, he pub- Montmartre, where they were lished a voluminous treatise, secure from eavesdroppers, not only detailing his own ad- Ben Zoof incidentally referred ' iii-wrnr:. Wiiti,™. ventures, but setting forth, to the experiences in the

with the most elaborate preci- depths of Nina's Hive ; but sion, all the elements which stopped short and said, "How- settled its period and its orbit. ever, those things never hap- Discussions arose in scientific pened, sir, did they?" circles; an overwhelming ma- His master could only reply, jority decided against the rep- "Confound it, Ben Zoof! What resentations of the professor; is a man to believe?" THE END