Guides and mules awaited them at the landing stairs of the harbor.

"It is time," said Lord Glenarvan at last.

"Go then, dear Edward," said Lady Helena, restraining her emotion.

Lord Glenarvan clasped her closely to his breast for an instant,
and then turned away, while Robert flung his arms round Mary's neck.

"And now, friends," said Paganel, "let's have one good hearty
shake of the hand all round, to last us till we get to the shores
of the Atlantic."

This was not much to ask, but he certainly got strong enough
grips to go some way towards satisfying his desire.

All went on deck now, and the seven explorers left the vessel.
They were soon on the quay, and as the yacht turned round
to pursue her course, she came so near where they stood,
that Lady Helena could exchange farewells once more.

"God help you!" she called out.

"Heaven will help us, madam," shouted Paganel, in reply,
"for you may be sure we'll help ourselves."

"Go on," sung out the captain to his engineer.

At the same moment Lord Glenarvan gave the signal to start,
and away went the mules along the coast, while the DUNCAN