points to a subterranean river which connects this lake with the
Pacific Ocean."

"Wonder how long I'd have to hold my breath to make the trip?"



CHAPTER XI.
ANOTHER SURPRISE FOR THE PROFESSOR.

The stranger laughed aloud at this, then seemed surprised that
aught of mirth could be awakened where grief and despair had so
long reigned supreme.

"You will come with me to--to my den, gentlemen?" he asked, still
nervous, and plainly loath to do aught which indicated a return
to his recent dreary method of living.

"Is the distance great?" asked Professor Featherwit, with a
glance towards the aeromotor, then flashing his gaze further, as
though to guard against possible harm coming to that valuable
piece of property.

More than ever to be guarded now, since the words spoken by this
exile. Better death in yonder mighty whirlpool than a half-score
years' imprisonment here!

Not so very far, he was assured, while it would be comparatively
easy to float the air-ship above the trees, there of no
extraordinary growth.