we can rescue those in danger of fire, and, later, can repair the
break."

"The very thing!" exclaimed Mr. Henderson. "I never thought of that!
Here, Washington! Bring me a drill, and a small stop-cock!"

The drill was obtained from the engine room. Working rapidly Mr.
Henderson bored a hole in the lower part of the holder. As soon as the
metal was penetrated the gas, which was under considerable pressure,
rushed from the tank with a hissing sound. At once the Mermaid began
to settle rapidly.

But the professor was prepared for this. He thrust the end of the
stop-cock into the hole. It was screwed fast and the valve turned.
This stopped the flow of gas and checked the descent of the ship.
Then, by opening the tap the vapor was allowed to escape gradually,
bringing the Flying Mermaid gently to the water.

As the adventurers approached they could see that the vessel was now a
mass of flames. The wind was driving the fire toward the forecastle,
and the crew had sought refuge aft. But this expedient could not last
long, for, already the tongues of fire were licking the sides of the
craft and coming nearer and nearer the seemingly doomed men. The
vessel was a large one, and heavily laden.

As those in peril caught sight of the Mermaid settling down into the
water, apparently from the clouds, their fears gave place to
astonishment. So great was this that they ceased their cries of
terror. Then, as they saw that the strange craft navigated the ocean,
for the engines were started aboard the Mermaid, they began to call