way of conquering the air," said Mr. Henderson. "If they are a
race of superior intelligence, as some authorities believe, from
the fact that Mars may have been inhabited for millions of years
before this earth was formed, they must have advanced very
greatly in science. The mastery of the air--in making flying
machines--would be one of the surest tests."

"I think you will find the Martians a very learned race,
professor," said Mr. Roumann.

"I want to see if the boys there are like the fellows on earth--
playing baseball, football and so on," marked Jack.

"I shall be interested in the colleges," added Mark, "and in the
great canals of Mars."

"I believe there will be plenty to interest us on the planet
which glows so red at night," went on Mr. Henderson. "But, Mr.
Roumann, it is only fair to tell you that the building of this
projectile will cost considerable money. I do not hesitate
on this account, but, as you know, the Flying Mermaid, in which
we went to the center of the earth, had to be abandoned there.
That was quite a heavy loss. I should not like--"

"You will suffer no loss in this case," interrupted Roumann. "I
appreciate that the projectile cost a large sum. I have no money
to advance you, but I can promise you that when we reach Mars you
will be amply repaid. We shall be rich--rich beyond your wildest
dreams. There will be gold in untold quantities--"