"So they are, and it may be raining down at the sea; but if we keep
above the rain it makes no difference to us. It will not interfere
with the work."

"If it is raining it is not a heavy rain," said Tom. "The clouds do
not look like it, and probably the wind has dropped altogether."

"Perhaps so, but I think we had better not go down yet. Let us get
into going order as soon as we can, and then we can do as we like."

At a few minutes after two the first part of the work was finished.
The fore-screw was in its place, and the power was turned on. The
speed was gradually increased, and the "Albatross," heading to the
southwest, returned at moderate speed towards the Chatham Islands.

"Tom," said Robur, "It is about two hours and a half since we got
adrift. The wind has not changed all the time. I think we ought to be
over the island in an hour."

"Yes, sir. We are going about forty feet a second. We ought, to be
there about half-past three."

"All the better. It would suit us best to get back while it is dark,
and even beach the "Albatross" if we can. Those fellows will fancy we
are a long way off to the northward, and never think of keeping a
look-out. If we have to stop a day or two on the island --"

"We'll stop, and if we have to fight an army of natives?"

"We'll fight," said Robur. "We'll fight then for our "Albatross.""