The Day of Resis

27

The next morning they had gone but a short distance when they came to a vast inland lake. The bridge mentioned in the manuscript stood before them, and mounting this they startled to cross the lake. They had followed this about four miles when they came to a break in the solid masonry. The hole was fully eight feet wide, and it was a serious question as to how they were to get to the opposite side; but Sedai offered to tie the rope to his arm and leap across. The end of the rope could be fastened and the ladies and Mr. Graham could cross over, while Mr. Bruce and Harry could make the leap as did Sedai.

This Sedai did, and fastening one end of the rope to one of the huge stones, which had evidently come from the break, Mr. Bruce and Harry held the other end, and Mrs. Graham and Enola worked their way slowly across. Nellie then grasped the rope and was half way over, when a terrible commotion was heard near the bridge, and a spout of water was sent thirty feet into the air. The whole party was deluged; the torches were put out, and when their first surprise was 36over, they saw with horror that Nellie had loosened her hold on the rope and had dropped into the water. Hastily relighting the torches, they saw Nellie disappearing in the swift current. It took but a second for Mr. Bruce to throw off his jacket and plunge in after her. He hoped by the help the current and his long easy strokes to overtake her. He could just see her above the surface of the water about one hundred yards ahead of him, evidently fast giving out. He strained every nerve, put forth every effort, resorted to every means to force himself through the water, and he could see that he was gaining slowly. He called to her to keep her hands and feet moving and to keep up courage. He could see her beating the water making frantic efforts to keep afloat, but her struggles were becoming weaker and weaker, and at last they ceased altogether and she began to sink when he was only a few feet away. Making one grand final effort he caught her by the hair just as she was sinking beneath the surface.

Grasping her about the waist, and holding her head above the water with one arm, he tried to swim out of the current. This was a hard task, but he was an excellent swimmer, and nearly succeeded. But the struggle was an unequal one and having but one hand to use, he soon found that the current was getting the better of him. He now threw Nellie over his shoulder and grasping her dress between his teeth, he in this way gained the use of both hands, and soon made his way into more quiet water. Turning he saw the flickering torches far in the distance, but close at hand were two round balls that shone like fire. The water was terribly agitated and he soon found himself 37struggling against waves like those thrown up by the paddles of a steamboat.

Nearer and nearer came those fearful eyes, and Mr. Bruce thought all was lost. Happily for Nellie she had fainted, so she was spared the terror of this new danger. Mr. Bruce was not one to give up, however, as long as there was a shadow of a hope, and he was thinking hard to devise a means to escape this monster. Those eyes were nearing him, and in an instant he would feel the hot breath in his face. Down he sank holding Nellie about the waist. Rising to the surface again he started for the lights. He was afraid to look back for fear of seeing those fearful eyes following him. Larger and larger grew the lights, nearer and nearer he came to his friends. His strength was fast failing but he must not give up when so near to those who could rescue them. A few strokes more and he was in the radius of the torchlight, and a shout of encouragement from his friends greeted him. This seemed to rouse Nellie for she gave a long sigh.

“Throw your arms about my neck and hold on for your life,” said Mr. Bruce, and Nellie having done this it left his mouth free, and he breathed with greater ease.

“Look behind you,” called Mr. Graham, and looking over his shoulder, he saw those awful eyes again, with the huge black body, following them. He turned and faced the monster again, just as it was opening its cavernous jaws. Once more he sank bidding Nellie to hold her breath. The huge mass passed over him, and coming to the surface he saw the great black body going straight ahead at a fearful speed. The serpent made a big circle and then turned and came toward 38them again. Mr. Bruce was nearly exhausted and felt that he could not risk again that terrible plunge under the passing monster, and still have strength to reach the pier. He could see Harry and Sedai preparing to swim to them, and knew that Nellie and he were safe if the terrible serpent did not make another charge on them. Sedai now came towards them holding a flaming torch. Back of them but a few yards could be seen the sea monster again making for them. They were fast nearing the bridge. The rope was thrown to them and Mr. Bruce fastening this around Nellie’s body, she was pulled out of the water. It was then thrown to Mr. Bruce and Sedai, just as the terrible monster opened his jaws. Sedai thrust his blazing torch into the creature’s mouth, and then with Mr. Bruce, hurried hand over hand up the rope.

The water was lashed into foam by the struggles of the serpent, and bullets from Harry’s revolver seemed to have no effect. They got a good look now at the monster. The largest part of the body was just back of the head and tapered from this to the end of the tail. The head was at least six feet long, and flat, or nearly so. The wide jaws, when open, showed a double set of irregular teeth. The tongue was forked. A large horn about three feet long sprang from the head just back of the nostrils, and from this to the point of the tail was a succession of smaller horns. Just back of the large horn or tusk, was a hole through which the monster forced a stream of water high into the air. Three great fins on either side of the body were tipped with long claws looking as if they might be used for crawling. Its rage was terrible when maddened 39by the flaming torch and by the escaping of its prey.

The party now hurried on over the bridge after they had transferred the packs by a succession of leaps across the break. The monster followed them for awhile but finally turned and swam away. They reached the end of the bridge about two hours later, and calculated that it must be about ten miles long. Leaving the shores of the lake they again followed the line of broken stone, and two days later reached the opposite wall.

For awhile they sought a possible opening in the wall, but could nowhere detect any evidence of human handiwork. To and fro they went, pressing hard upon every piece of rock which projected from the wall. This they kept up all of the first day, and they laid down to rest that night pretty well disheartened. Their provisions were getting low for they had calculated in getting through in much less time. They had been living on short rations for the past twenty-four hours, but now they had but a few crackers left. They still had hopes, however, of finding this secret door on the morrow, when they would find food in plenty on the other side of the wall. The following morning after a frugal repast of dry crackers, they again began the search. They first examined the wall directly in front of them, but could see no crack or crevice which might indicate the presence of a door. They had carefully followed the line of broken stone, and they might reasonably expect to find the door at the end of this.

Striking on the rock with a hammer at different places, they could not distinguish any difference in tone, which would indicate a thinner part of the rock 40wall. They examined the rock for about four hundred feet, and all seemed perfectly solid. They discovered in their search many holes about four feet square, two feet wide, and three feet deep. These were arranged along the side of the cavern, having been cut in the wall, and upon close inspection they found them to contain what proved to be mummies. These were wrapped in heavy sacking, many of the envelopes being of fantastic colors. Harry took one of these bundles from its place and cut it open. A number of cloth coverings were found under the outside wrapping, and then came a covering of large leaves which crumbled into dust when exposed. Next to the leaves was a wrapping of fine silk. This having been removed the body was discovered. It was that of a man who must have been more than six feet in height when alive. The head was brought forward between the knees, which were drawn up; the skin was dry and hard and drawn closely over the bones; the hair was long and still retained a beautiful lustre. The head was small but beautifully formed; the hands and feet were also small and symmetrical. Inside the covering were a number of gold balls about one half inch in diameter; two characters were engraved on one side of each of these balls. Examining them closely, Mr. Bruce declared that the hieroglyphics were undoubtedly Egyptian. Around the neck of the mummy was a chain of gold set with diamonds and opals. This chain was similar to the one found around Harding’s neck, but the bright red stone was missing.

Eight o’clock had arrived and they were still searching for the opening. A supper of crackers had been eaten. They were already suffering from the pangs 41of thirst. The water gourds which had been refilled before leaving the lake were again empty. The food, with the exception of a few crackers, was gone.

Mrs. Graham and Nellie laid down to get a few hours’ rest, but Enola, with the men of the party, kept bravely on in search of the opening. Midnight came and found them still searching. Hungry and thirsty, they, too, at last lay down, feeling that they must reserve their strength as much as possible. Their few hours of sleep, however, did not seem to refresh them, for the thirst had made them restless. The whole party arose about the same time and the search was soon taken up again. They examined the wall more closely, going farther on either side, but with no success.

Late in the afternoon Mrs. Graham became so feverish for want of water that Sedai started with two large gourds for the lake. If they should find the opening in the meantime, they were to leave directions as to how to open the rock door, and then pass on. About midnight Mr. Graham also became delirious, and Mrs. Graham’s and Nellie’s lips were so swollen that they could scarcely articulate. Mr. Bruce and Harry, although suffering terribly, still kept up the search. All night they tramped up and down the cave, trying to find the secret opening. Toward morning they became so famished and their tongues and lips were so parched and swollen they could not make each other understand what they were saying. Enola alone seemed to retain her clear and unfailing senses.

Mr. Bruce and Harry had thrown themselves on the ground at last, thoroughly worn out, their lips and 42tongues swollen terribly. Mrs. Graham and Nellie were mumbling something in their delirium which was unintelligible. This drove Mr. Bruce and Harry nearly frantic, and again they arose and took up the search. Their breath came hard through their parched throats, and their eyes were wild and glaring. Mr. Bruce walked over to where Mrs. Graham and Nellie were lying, and suddenly drawing his knife, he slit the sleeve of his jacket and shirt, and made a deep incision in his arm; then carefully raising Nellie’s head with his other arm he let the warm blood from the wound drop between her half-open lips; then going to Mrs. Graham he partially alleviated her sufferings in the same way. Finally overcome with weakness Mr. Bruce fell back, and Harry, who had stood by looking at the strange sight, but hardly realizing what Mr. Bruce was doing, now came up, and tearing off the sleeve of the shirt, bound the arm tightly above the wound. Enola stood watching this self-sacrificing act on the part of Mr. Bruce, and when Harry had bandaged his arm, she turned and walked toward the wall, mumbling something to herself. Harry saw that she, too, was fast becoming delirious, but he was powerless to help her, he being almost too weak now to again take up the search.

He arose to his feet, however, and again joining Enola, they together staggered from point to point of the wall, feverishly looking for some indication of a revolving stone. Hours had passed since Sedai had left them, but they seemed like years to his suffering companions. Praying for his return, praying for deliverance from this cavern, Enola felt her senses leaving her. She fought against this but to no purpose. 43Harry finally sank to the ground in a delirium. Enola gazed at him for a moment, and making one final effort, stumbled along leaning against the wall for support. She had gone but five or six paces when her strength gave way entirely, and she sank back upon the rock floor. Death seemed inevitable.

But Enola had not lost consciousness entirely when she sank to the floor. She had rested there only a moment, when she thought she felt something pushing her. She half rose, and looking over her shoulder thought she saw a ray of light. Could she be dreaming? Was this some awful torturing vision come to torment her in her fearful suffering? No. She could see the sun, the sky, and far away she caught a glimpse of a beautiful city. She now realized it all; her weight upon this particular part of the floor had set the door to moving. She must move through the opening quickly. Her senses were roused to action by this revelation. She knew the door would revolve and close again perhaps forever.

She had by some strange fatality accidentally found the means of opening it, for which they had searched so vainly, but while in such a semi-conscious state she might not be able to repeat the operation. She knew where to find the spring on the other side, and as the opening began to grow smaller, the door slowly swinging 44into its place again, she gave one frantic leap and turned to find herself cut off from the rest by the solid wall of rock.

From the ground she began to tear bits of grass and succulent weeds, and partially allaying her thirst with these, she hurried to the point which might be, she thought, the hiding place of the spring. Almost tearing the flesh from her hands in pulling the underbrush away, she was rewarded by seeing a loose piece of rock set into the solid cliff. Removing this the lever was before her. It took nearly all the strength she had left to move the lever, but she was rewarded at last by seeing the door swing on its pivots again. Peering through the opening she saw the light of a torch moving quickly toward the door, and she knew that it was Sedai returning. Sedai had caught the glimpse of daylight, and hastening his steps, he had moistened the lips of the sufferers, and when the door again swung open he hurried through with Mrs. Graham, and as often as Enola would lift the heavy lever he would carry out another of the prostrated companions.

One by one, all were carried out, and Sedai returned for the arms and accoutrements. Ladened with these he lacked the rapidity of motion necessary, and the massive stone as it revolved, caught him squarely between the shoulders. Slowly the grinding mass pressed closer, while Enola, petrified with horror for the moment, pressed her hands to her throbbing temples. Finally, realizing the fearful position that Sedai was in, she seized one of the rifles, and using it as a lever, placed it in the crack of the door and threw her whole weight against it. At the same time Sedai, 45with a herculean effort of his mighty muscles, strained every nerve, pushed himself through, and fell on the ground bruised and bleeding. Enola, taking one of the water gourds which Sedai had tramped so far to fill, placed it to the lips of the noble fellow, and then gave the others a very little. Her strength now gave out again and she sank down thoroughly worn out.

The few drops of water had partially roused the others, and Mr. Bruce especially seemed to have regained complete consciousness. He looked about him, but it had grown dark and he could see nothing; but he could hear, and the cries of many beasts reached his ears. He tried hard to remember how he had come here, and wondered where his companions were. The cries of the wild beasts, however, brought him back to himself, and he knew that a fire must be built or the beasts would be on him. He rose and began looking for some dry twigs with which to build the fire; he stumbled over something, and stooping, he found it to be one of his companions. He felt about him and found a torch, and lighting this, he saw the rest of the party lying about him. He started a fire, and not a moment too soon, for the cries of the animals were growing dangerously near; and a little while after he saw two bright eyes looking at him from out the darkness; then all about him he could see those glaring eyes. The number was growing, and Mr. Bruce becoming thoroughly alarmed, roused the others, and all gathering near the fire, waited for further developments. They were jackals, as nearly as the party could make out; and occasionally one a little bolder than the rest, would come within the circle of light; but a ball from one of the rifles would stop 46him, when his bloodthirsty comrades would jump on the body and devour it in an instant. They increased in numbers until those in the rear, crowding forward, pushed the foremost nearer and nearer the fire, it became necessary to use the rifles as clubs and beat them back.

The situation had become most alarming when the roar of a lion almost in their midst struck terror to the hearts of the travelers, and made the jackals scamper off into the jungle. A crashing of the underbrush was followed by another mighty roar, and looking, our friends could just see, in the outer edge of light, two tawny monsters about to engage in a combat, evidently over the possession of a beautiful lioness which was moving about urging the lions on. The two lions sprang at each other simultaneously, and meeting in midair, down to the earth they fell, fastened together by teeth and claws. Over and over they rolled, biting and snarling, and striking murderous blows with their powerful paws. It was a magnificent battle, and in spite of bleeding wounds, raged furiously for a quarter of an hour, when, through loss of blood, the blows became weaker, and the biting less fierce. The royal combat was drawing to a close. Suddenly, as though determined to win or lose all in one final struggle they separated and once more came together in savage fury. A terrific blow from the paw of the one laid open the neck of the other, but not soon enough to check the fearful crunch of the powerful jaws upon the throat of his opponent, and in a moment the writhing mass lay quiet on the ground, dead.

Our friends had stood gazing at the awful fight with a horrible fascination, and it was some minutes 47before they could take their eyes off the fallen foes. When they did, and looked at the east they saw that dawn was breaking.

As the shadows faded before the rising sun the sounds from the forest grew less and less, until nothing was heard but the songs of the wakening birds. Slowly the dawn crept into the heavens. The gray turned to pink, the pink to a rich red and then to a yellow, and the sun rose in all its equatorial splendor. A mist hung over the landscape, but gradually this was dissipated before the hot rays of the sun, and the country and city of On lay before them.

They were standing on a small plateau on the eastern slope, a lofty range of mountains or cliffs. As far as the eye could reach westward, these mountains rose in perpendicular cliffs, thousands of feet into the air. A few miles east of them the range turned in a northerly direction, and extended on and on until the eye could follow it no farther. The mountain descended about six hundred feet from where they were standing, and ended in a beautiful valley.

In their immediate vicinity was a dense jungle, and to the north of a magnificent forest. At the base of the mountain was a wide river, and on the opposite bank of this was a stone wall fifty feet in height. Beyond this wall stretched a beautiful valley, dotted with numerous groves and small lakes. To the northwest of them a few miles rose the tall towers of a vast and beautiful city, all glistening in the sunlight. The city rose from the valley to the top of a high hill on the summit of which was a grand structure, probably a temple.

The scene was ineffably grand, and our friends looked on it in wonder.

48“Are you now convinced, Harry, that there are a few real things in Africa?” asked Enola.

“The scene before me would hardly convince me of this,” said Harry, “for everything seems too beautiful to be real.”

“Disabuse your mind of its being a dream?” said Enola. “It is a most sublime reality, and a happy ending to the horrors and sufferings of the cavern. But look, do you not see a body of horsemen yonder? Probably they saw our fire last night and are coming to investigate.”

The horsemen were lost to view for a moment but again appeared to the party as they came out on a clear stretch of road. In a short while the men had arrived at the wall, and opening a gate in this which was at the end of the bridge, they waited for our friends to approach. The travelers moved slowly toward them, and as they came nearer the men dismounted and made a respectful obeisance. These men were the handsomest and most beautifully formed ever looked upon. They were fully seven feet high, and their figures showed great strength and suppleness; their heads were rather small but beautifully shaped; the skin was a light bronze color, soft and healthful-looking; the face was covered with a short beard of dark brown color; the eyes were large, dark, and full of expression; the nose straight and well-proportioned.

Each wore a loose garment with large flowing sleeves; this tunic was belted in at the waist by a girdle of gold; sandals were fastened to the feet by golden lacings extending to the knee; a round helmet was worn on the head, but as our party approached 49these helmets were removed disclosing short curly heads of hair.

Their steeds were of the same species but much larger than the ordinary zebra, standing at least eighteen hands high; they were beautiful creatures, with small heads, arched necks and finely shaped bodies and limbs; stripes encircled them from the tip of the nose to the tail; the manes and tails nearly touched the ground.

The trappings of the animals were gorgeous; the bridle was of polished gold wire with large ostrich plumes reaching up from the head-piece; the reins and martingales were made of white leather heavily studded with precious stones which glistened in the sunlight; the saddle was flat, being nothing more than a pad made of cloth-of-gold and without stirrups.

As our friends approached them, the men stood leaning against their steeds, holding their helmets in their hands. The rest of the party having halted, Mr. Graham went up quite close to the natives and by signs made them understand that they were tired, and hungry, and wanted food and shelter. One of the men showed by signs that he knew that which Mr. Graham wished to convey, and that they would send to the city and get other beasts to carry them there. Four men now left the band and rode off toward the city, and about two hours later the adventurers were surprised to see approaching them a body of at least one thousand zebramen and in front six monstrous white elephants.

With the greatest care all were helped upon the backs of the royal beasts, but Enola was given the largest, whitest and most richly caparisoned. These elephants 50were partially covered with cloth-of-gold, and on each of their backs was a comfortable howdah shaded by a canopy of palm branches.

When all was in readiness they started with Enola’s elephant in the lead. The cavalcade moved slowly over the beautiful highway on through green fields, along the shores of miniature lakes, over low eminences, past well-cultivated farms, under stately palms and eucalyptus trees until the white city was seen but a short distance away. Here some of the party left the cavalcade and rode on ahead.

Shortly after this the road widened into a wide well-paved boulevard, lined on each side by lofty trees, and bordered by beautiful villas built of an exquisite pinkish white stone which resembled Mexican onyx. These villas were broad and deep, and moderately high; a wide flight of steps led up to each entrance which was easily twenty-five feet high, and which was sheltered by a portico, with immense pillars supporting its roof. The surrounding grounds were large, delightfully shaded and bright with flowers.

On the cavalcade moved, through the broad avenue, the houses becoming larger and more magnificent as they approached the centre of the city.

They came at last to a large opening, at least one thousand feet square and paved with exquisite onyx. In the centre of this square was a huge column, surmounted 51by a statue of magnificent workmanship. Surrounding this statue were five immense fountains. In each was a heroic statue of a woman with her head thrown back, from whose mouth spouted a stream of water high into the air. The arms were outstretched with the palms of the hands turned upward, and from these also sprang streams of water. Beyond the fountain, facing the avenue through which they had entered the square, was a stone sphere ten feet in diameter, on the top of which was a beautifully carved chair of onyx inlaid with gold. A man was seated in this chair who was probably thirty-five years old and of immense build. As the cavalcade approached he arose, showing to the full his magnificent figure. This personage afterwards proved to be the King.

The square was thronged with the inhabitants of the city, the porticos and roofs of the surrounding houses being filled with the populace.

The men were magnificent specimens of the human race. The women were six feet six inches in height, of stately figure and dignified bearing; their heads were small but well-shaped; the hair was of a dark brown color fastened in a coil at the back of the neck. A band of gold passed around the forehead just below the hair and was studded with precious stones. They wore loose, flowing robes of white silken cloth drawn in at the waist with a girdle of gold; around each neck was a golden chain set with diamonds and opals; these chains were similar to those worn by the men but of finer workmanship.

As the King raised his hand the mighty throng broke forth in beautiful song, the King moving his hand right and left as if directing. The voices of the 52men were deep and melodious, and those of the women soft and musical. When the song was finished, the King turned his back to our friends, and facing the magnificent building on the summit of the hill, made a movement with his right hand. The doors of the temple were thrown open, and a band of beautiful young girls came forth singing the same song that the populace had sung. Merrily these maidens came tripping toward the square, the great throng of people making an opening through which they could pass.

Upon reaching the space before the great sphere of stone, they waited for the occupant of the throne to descend, then fastening gold cords to the tusks of the elephants they led them toward the temple, the populace falling in behind. Slowly the maidens led the animals over the beautiful square, through the mass of eager and interesting people, all of whom made deep salaams as they passed on through the wide avenue which led to the temple and past the magnificent buildings to the summit of the hill. When nearing the temple ten men came forth, each wearing a long robe of embroidered white silk.

The elephants were stopped at the main entrance of the temple, and immediately fell to their knees, when the party dismounted. Carefully the priests assisted them to the pavement and then walked before them burning sweet smelling incense from silver vessels, which they swayed to and fro. Through a wide court with a lofty colonnade on either side, up a broad staircase with battlemented towers they proceeded, and then entered a hexagonal hall, one hundred and fifty feet square. From here they passed into a second court of quadrangular form. All around the court ran 53arcades, forming chambers or recesses open in front, with long silken curtains hanging from the top of the arcade, and caught up at the sides to be used when needed. The roofs of the chambers were supported by columns, the beauty of conception, and the exquisite finish of which, astonished our friends. The decorations were most elaborate. Nobly sculptured statues occupied spacious niches, and showed that those who executed them were masters of their art. The quadrangle itself was about three hundred and fifty feet square.

Enola was led by a priest to one of the semi-circular chambers and the curtains were drawn. Each of the others was shown to one of these recesses.

Enola, upon entering the chamber, looked about her and was surprised to see the preparations made for her. In the centre of the chamber was a beautiful designed square onyx table, supported by four spheres. Upon this table, in great profusion lay girdles and circles of gold, all heavily studded with diamonds and opals, similar to those worn by the native women but of more exquisite design; also gold pins, bottles of gold, filled with delightful perfumes, golden combs and highly polished mirrors of silver. Upon a smaller table at the far end of the chamber was a ewer filled with perfumed water. Near this table, resting on an onyx sphere, was placed an extinguished lamp of fine workmanship. Couches were in various places in this luxurious apartment; upon one of them lay a gown of silk and gold with short flowing sleeves, and near it another gown of pinkish white silk which was evidently meant to be worn as an undergarment.

Across the end of the chamber were hung heavy silk curtains, which, when parted, disclosed a bath 54sunken in the floor. About the bath stood six of the maidens who had conducted the party to the temple. The maidens stood motionless watching Enola as if waiting for her to come to the bath. Enola hesitated for a moment, then determined to accept the situation and walked towards the bath. The maidens disrobed her, and leading her into the bath, forced her gently backward in a reclining position with her head resting on an onyx head-piece, and then poured the perfume from the golden vessels over her body, rubbing her gently with a silken towel while doing so.

She being tired and worn out, the luxury of the perfumed bath, with the pleasing treatment of the maidens, rested and refreshed her.

After remaining in the bath for some time the maidens raised her in their arms, and carrying her to a couch laid her down and rubbed the moist skin until it was perfectly dry. They then sprinkled scented powder over her body, rubbing it gently; then motioning her to arise, the undergarment was thrown over her shoulders, after which one of the maidens dressed her hair in a low knot on the back of her head. A band of gold was placed over her forehead and then the outer robe was donned. This was fastened in at the waist by a girdle of gold; the necklace from Harding’s neck was brought to her, but Enola noticed that none of the maidens touched it with their naked hands, and she soon divined that in some way her royal reception was connected with the necklace and its flame-colored stone. Enola was then led to an alcove before which a curtain was hung, and then the curtain being drawn aside she found the alcove faced on either side with polished silver mirrors. She was surprised at the 55lovely picture she presented, in rich gown and golden bands around her head and waist, making her appear like an ancient Egyptian goddess.

The long tramp through the cavern with its scarcity of water and clean garments had left Enola in a pitiable plight, and this sudden change was most gratifying to the natural pride of the woman. Enola was next conducted to a couch and a pair of sandals were fitted to her shapely feet; these were laced as far as the knee with silken cords. One of the maidens left them for a few moments, and upon her return, motioned to Enola and the others to follow her. They passed into the quadrangular court and from here into one of the other semi-circular chambers. Here on a long onyx table was spread a sumptuous repast.

Enola was led to a seat or couch at the head of the table, and half reclining upon the soft cushions, while waiting for her friends, looked in wonderment at the elaborate prodigality in the equipment of the room.

The sides of the chamber were hung with heavy silk curtains alternating white and red, on which scenes of the chase, of banqueting and of worship were gorgeously embroidered with gold thread. Exquisite sculptures rested upon spherical pedestals. Lion, tiger and leopard skins covered the floor, and upon the ceiling, beautifully carved, was an immense eagle with outstretched wings, the tips reaching almost to the ends of the chamber. In the talons of the eagle was a scroll upon which were engraved strange hieroglyphics. At one end of the chamber a human skeleton was standing, the only discordant object in the entire furnishings. The table was of semi-circular form, and was covered with flowers, fruits and chalices of 56wine. The flowers were held in high, beautifully carved vases of gold and were profuse and fragrant. In the center of the table a tiny fountain threw forth a spray of perfumed water.

Enola was lost in admiration and did not hear a slight noise behind her, and was suddenly startled by the immense figure of the King as he entered and stood before her. She motioned him to the couch and he sank down beside her. He kept his eyes intently upon her, but noticing his look of respectful admiration Enola was half amused, and soon began a conversation by signs all of which were readily understood by the King. The rest of the party now came in, each of the ladies accompanied by three maids, and the men by two male servitors each.

Nellie and Mrs. Graham were attired much the same as Enola; Mr. Graham, Mr. Bruce and Harry were dressed as the native men, but their garments were of a finer quality of silk.

Upon entering the chamber the male servitors retired and six maidens took their places. Nellie was given a seat next to Enola, and next to her came Mr. Bruce and then Harry; Mrs. Graham sat next to the King with her husband at her left.

When all were seated, a strain of exquisite music from some hidden orchestra of stringed instruments burst forth. The King gave a command and fifteen maidens came tripping in singing a pretty song, their harmonious voices blending deliciously with the music. Seven of the maidens carried gold dishes containing chipped ice, while the others carried cups in one hand and a vase of honey in the other. They rested the cups on the tables and after filling them partly with 57honey added wine from the chalices and then dropped into the cups some of the chipped ice, stirring this gently with small golden ladles. This done they stepped back and the King raising his cup, waited for the others to do so; when they had done this the King arose and looking toward the skeleton at the end of the room, raising his cup and saying a few words, drank the contents. All had followed the King in his movements, and as the cool beverage touched their lips it seemed that they had never tasted anything half so sweet or refreshing. Months had passed since they had known such luxuries as ice and wine and they emptied their cups almost greedily, hoping that the etiquette of the feast would allow them to drink long and unsparingly of the delicious beverage.

The maidens bore the cups away, and others brought in trays containing small silken napkins and golden finger bowls filled with perfumed water. Other maidens brought in trays, covered with figs, fresh herbs, chipped ice and eggs of a peculiar kind in tiny cups of gold.

Thus far not a word had been spoken; the King, however, seemed surprised at the silence, and probably surmising the reason pointed to his lips and then to the guests, making them understand that he would like to hear them talk. Enola took upon herself to instruct the King as far as possible in English, pointing to different articles on the table and then naming them. Onrai, for this was the King’s name, named the articles slowly after her and then gave the names in his native tongue.

Mr. Bruce, who had listened intently to the names given the articles by the King, and who had carefully 58studied a piece of papyrus upon which the King had inscribed some characters when passed to him, declared the characters to be Egyptian hieroglyphics or closely resembling them. He had been a close student of the Egyptian hieroglyphics while at college, and had spent many spare moments in the great British museum going over the ancient inscriptions in the vast collection of that home of relics. He had noticed also the inscription upon the pennant held in the eagle’s talons on the ceiling, and the characters above the skeleton at the end of the room. All these convinced him that the strange people around him had originally come from Egypt, but it must have been thousands of years before, for the language and written characters of the ancient Egyptians had been obsolete for centuries. The skeleton in the banqueting hall was an old Egyptian custom, and this but added to the belief that these people had originally sprung from that race.

“One would think,” said Harry, “that we had been taken from the world of hurry and bustle which we so recently knew, and set back two or three thousand years into this ancient city.”

“Yes, it all seems very strange,” said Mr. Bruce, “but I must admit there is novelty in the change at least, and for my part I am enjoying it immensely.”

“Well, I never expected to find iced wine in the heart of Africa,” said Mr. Graham.

“Nor I,” said Mrs. Graham, “nor cups of gold from which to drink it.”

“Truly, we must have discovered a city of the gods,” exclaimed Mr. Graham.

“Yes,” said Mr. Bruce, “one could easily imagine 59from the beauty of the city, the stateliness and courtesy of the people, and the delights of the feast, that we have dropped into something supernatural.”

The music changed to a livelier measure, and the maidens tripped more lightly to and fro as the feast progressed. Roast kid with wine sauce, composed the third course, and when this was removed, the finger bowls were again passed among the guests. Then, after more iced wine and honey, a delicate kind of fish was served, after which came fowl, followed by sliced fruits covered with shaved ice, and accompanied by a new and delicious wine. The feast ended, the King arose, and leading the way with Enola at his side, passed into the large court, where they witnessed a magnificent entertainment.

Four weeks of constant enjoyment passed. The greatest kindness had been shown the explorers by both king and subjects. The most sumptuous repasts were set before them; the most beautiful robes were presented to them, and the most glorious entertainments gotten up for their delight. Their attendants anticipated their least desires and the King himself personally supervised the festivities. Great hunts had been projected and carried out; excursions through the beautiful country had been made on the backs of white elephants; points of interest in the city had 60been visited; moonlight rambles through the beautiful groves had been taken, and there seemed no prospect of diminution of enjoyment.

They were living under the laws of three thousand years ago. Little had been learned of their history or religion, for they had not become sufficiently acquainted with the language to have these things imparted to them. With Mr. Bruce’s help, however, they had learned that these people were closely affiliated with the ancient Egyptians. Onrai had promised to give the party some of the laws that night.

During the four weeks which had passed so pleasantly, the adventurers had studied closely the people and their country. The rays of the sun were intensely hot during the day, but owing to the thickness of the onyx walls of the temple and the system by which air was forced over blocks of ice, the apartments were delightfully pleasant and cool. The streets during the day were deserted, but as evening came on the people would leave their homes and promenade the principal thoroughfares and squares, enjoying the cool and refreshing breezes which sprung up from the south as the day declined. The people themselves were the most remarkable feature of this strange country. The women stood fully six feet and six inches high and the men seven feet.

Another very noticeable thing was the total absence of aged people. In all their excursions they had not met a man or woman who looked to be past middle life. Had they discovered a fountain of youth, which, when bathed in, gave them a long lease on life with health and beauty? No cripples or infirm people were seen, all being robust and healthy. All resembled 61each other. It could be seen that their dispositions varied to some extent but not radically, since all seemed inspired by the same motives. They were easy in their movements and very graceful.

After four weeks of studying these people and their lives, our friends considered them the happiest mortals they had ever known, for they did not seem to have a care or trouble in the world.

That evening Onrai took the evening meal with them as usual and after this was over, and they had repaired to the large court, Enola said:

“Onrai, you promised to tell us of your laws to-night and we are waiting patiently to learn the government of such a happy people.”

“Our laws are simply nature’s law,” said Onrai. “In the first place, the laws governing our physical welfare are very strict, for we believe that happiness springs from a strong constitution and a healthy body. Our tables are spread with an abundance of viands, but just so much must be eaten and no more. We have certain hours for work and certain hours for entertainment and recreation; the hours for work are few, because we believe that overwork is injurious to the constitution and this we always try to prevent. Our people are educated in religious laws and language between the ages of seven and twelve.”

“Who are the teachers?” asked Enola.

“We are all teachers,” answered Onrai. “In our temples of learning all above the age of twenty have their days for teaching. This is considered one of the lightest duties, and we arrange the days so that they may come directly after those of the hardest toil.”

62“But is it with all other occupations as it is with teaching?” asked Mr. Graham. “Do you not assign certain work to those who are most proficient in that work?”

“We have none who are more proficient in one thing than another,” answered Onrai. “Between the ages of twelve and twenty, our young people devote certain hours each day to the study of trades and professions. They may work for two weeks on a farm, and for the next two weeks study architecture, and so on until they arrive at the age of twenty, when they are as well versed in one thing as in another.”

“But are there no differences in the intellects of the people?” asked Mr. Graham. “Are not some brighter and more clever than others?”

“No,” said Onrai. “Our duties are simple and easily learned, and when we have once mastered them thoroughly, what difference would it make, if, as you say, some should be brighter than others.”

“But,” said Enola, “Do you not have those who go beyond the things taught them and develop new principles and invent new contrivances, which might make their duties less irksome, their labors less arduous?”

“No, we have none such,” said Onrai, “or, if we have, their ideas never take shape or form, for the one great law is to be content with what is taught us. Look about you, see this beautiful country, the grand palaces, the statuary and paintings; could we conceive of more beautiful architecture, or grander statuary, with which to adorn these beautiful palaces? No, I think not. We have certain lines to follow in architecture, certain forms to copy in our statuary, and certain rules to observe in our painting, and these 63lead to but the one thing, and that is, perfection, which, when once reached cannot be surpassed.”

“Tell us more of the laws,” said Mr. Graham.

“After the physical welfare of our people is looked after, we make it imperative that they study, and learn and adhere to the laws governing the spiritual being. Our religion teaches us that if we abuse the body and die before our time we shall not enter the great hereafter; we shall be condemned to everlasting punishment. This religious law, and the dire future for those who break it, makes all observe it, and consequently you see no sick or infirm about you. We are taught to believe in one God, and live so that we may enter a home of everlasting bliss when we have lived out our lives on this earth.”

“Tell us how you punish murder and stealing,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Stealing, murder?” asked Onrai.

“Yes, taking from another that which belongs to him, either property or life.”

“These are unknown to us,” said Onrai. “We are all equal; we have the same duties to perform, the same garments to wear, the same things to eat and drink. Why should we take from another that which we have ourselves?”

“Is there no buying and selling?” asked Mr. Bruce.

“No,” said Onrai, “We all share alike. When a citizen wants a certain article he has but to ask for it and it is his. We have an abundance of all things, at all times and it is as free to one as to another.”

“What are your laws concerning marriage?” inquired Enola.

64“Our religious laws govern this,” replied Onrai. “At the age of eighteen the young people are taken before a council of ten and a careful examination is made of both physical and mental health. These examinations are reported on tablets and at the age of twenty they are again summoned and a husband or wife is allotted.”

“But love,” said Mrs. Graham, “does not love enter into the compact at all?”

“No”, said Onrai, “We are taught by our religion, not to allow ourselves to love until married. Those, who from association learn to seek one young person more than another, are brought before the council of ten and steps are taken to prevent a recurrence. It is by this law that we have attained a point in physical culture which shows a race of healthy, strong and vigorous beings. In the course of events there are occasional errors which render it necessary to forbid the further production of children. When the young people are examined, if any organ seems at all weak a companion is selected in whom that organ is at its best. If three decided weaknesses are found, the person is not allowed to marry. Dispositions and tempers are also considered by the council before selection is made. We, of course, in our short lives, cannot notice the great effects such a method brings about, but reason tells us that it must be a safeguard to the strength of the people.”

“But what of the history of your people, Onrai?” asked Mr. Bruce.

“Our history is unknown to us,” said Onrai. “The history of the people is not divulged. They know the events which occur during their own lives, and that is 65all. At the expiration of each king’s reign, the history of his reign in inscribed on a tablet of hard wood, and this is placed in a secret chamber. Those who are living at the time of his death are forbidden to ever mention the events of his reign when his successor has ascended to the throne.”

“We are greatly disappointed,” said Mr. Bruce. “We have become very much interested in your country and people, and we had hoped that we might learn their history.”

Onrai at this moment called an attendant to him, and speaking a few words to him the attendant withdrew. Presently the High Priest came forward, and Onrai held quite a conversation with him, after which he turned to our friends, and said:

“The High Priest informs me that he knows of no law which would forbid your entering this secret chamber, and there read from the tablets the history of our country and people.”

Our friends were much surprised at being granted this privilege, and thanking Onrai, they repaired to the Secret Chamber with the High Priest. While going to the chamber with the priest, he informed the party that he was entrusted with certain religious secrets which the rest of the people were not allowed to know, but as far as the history of the country was concerned he was forbidden, as were all others, to consult the tablets. Upon arriving at the Secret Chamber, a secret spring was touched, and an immense stone door turned on a pivot, much the same as the door to the cave. After entering the Priest showed them the location of the secret spring on the inside, and also the location of the most ancient tablets, and then retired. 66The great gate swung shut and they were left alone in the immense chamber which contained the unknown records of the history of On. They removed a great number of tablets, until those bearing the earliest dates were uncovered, and found them in a state of excellent preservation. With Mr. Bruce’s knowledge of ancient hieroglyphics he was able to decipher most of the inscriptions; by deciphering certain portions it was not difficult to fill in between without the labor of actual translation. The research stretched over several days, but condensed, the account ran as follows:

“During the reign of Amenophis of Egypt, the country was scourged by numerous and grievous plagues, and the people were sorely tried. These plagues were inflicted upon the Egyptians by the God of the Israelites, as a punishment for the severe treatment of the latter race. One Moyses, who had been reared in the royal house of the Pharaohs as a son, adopted the religion of the Israelites and was chosen by them for their leader to deliver them out of the land of Egypt. But they had no remedy at hand and still bowed in submission to the fearful task imposed upon them until Moyses at last saw a favorable opportunity for their deliverance. Reminding them of their former freedom, and of the God of their fathers, and that their cause was His, he prevailed upon them to regard their deliverance as an article of religion, and they again became a united people in their determination to seek refuge from the oppression of the Egyptians in the wilderness, which was the dwelling place of their kindred and the seat of their God. Then the fearful plagues were visited upon the people of Egypt and they became desperate.

67“Many Egyptians in the vicinity of Goshen, the dwelling place of the Israelites, had accepted the religion of that people, and seeing no end to the plagues which were scourging this country, they gathered together and determined to emigrate to some distant land where they could live in peace and happiness, and without fear of molestation from their idolatrous countrymen. At the final meeting of these people, On, of the city of Goshen, and the land of Egypt, was chosen as their leader, and it was determined to follow the Nile as far as expedient, until they had reached such a land as would suit them for a dwelling place. It is I, On, who am now inscribing this record. There were six thousand and six hundred of us, men, women and children. To leave Egypt together would create suspicion, so choosing forty sub-commanders, an equal number of companies set out at stated intervals and marched until the southern boundary of the country had been crossed, when all were consolidated and marched into the vast interior. When all were united, preparations were made for the great journey. Boats were built, and many provisions were procured, for we knew not the country into which we were going, or how long it would take to reach a desirable land in which to take up our abode. When all was in readiness we embarked in the boats and followed the Nile until coming to the many streams which comprise its source. Here we disembarked, leaving the boats in the river. Towards the south we marched, the journey being very slow, tedious, and fraught with much sickness and danger. Strange tribes of people we met, much darker in color than we, and very hostile. We struggled on for many weary leagues, fighting the 68strange people and being a prey to fever and wild beasts. Our band was altogether discouraged; still I pleaded with them, telling them that we would, sooner or later, come to an uninhabited country with fertile fields and cooling streams.

“We came at last to a lofty range of mountains, running north and south, extending, peak beyond peak, far to the westward. Following the mountains south, for many leagues farther, the range suddenly turned west. Still following along their base, we came to a beautiful open country. Here we decided to take up our dwelling.

“We had been here but a short time when one of the men discovered a hole in the side of the mountain. Ten men were sent to explore the vast cave which this opening led into. At the end of three days they returned and told us that an immense lake of water had stopped their further progress, and that they had returned for boats. These were made, and with them the men again started. Many times did the sun rise and set before they again returned, but at last they came with a story which made us all joyful. They had crossed the lake but had been lost on the opposite shore, and had wandered for many days until they saw a ray of light and making for it found an opening which led into a beautiful country, stretching far to the west and north. They explored a part of the country, finding numerous lakes and rivers, and then returned to tell of the wonderful hidden land.

“After a consultation it was determined to pass through the mountains and take up a permanent abode beyond. Preparations were made and together we started. The lake was crossed, the opening found 69and we reached the country which was to be the scene of our remaining life and death. Our numbers were taken, and it was found that during the two years’ march to this land we had lost more than half of our band. But three thousand and two hundred remained of the six thousand and six hundred which had started from Egypt. Fifteen hundred of those remaining were men, the women and children having succumbed more readily to the hardships of the journey.

“A site for a city was picked out and a part of the country cultivated. Our land abounded in wild animals and fruits so we were well-provided with food. A quarry of beautiful hard stone was found and we determined to build our city of this. The architects drew up the plans for the city and work was commenced. The Temple, which when finished will be the grandest which the world has ever known, will stand in the northern end of the city on a slight eminence. The streets are to be broad and paved. At frequent distances will be squares for public amusement, and parks for recreation will be placed conveniently near the city. We made two discoveries which have helped us in the manufacture of necessary implements and added to our comfort. A mine of gold was found, and in a cavern through which the wind rushes like a blast from a mountain of snow we found a lake of pure ice. This ice was of great thickness and it took us a great while to cut through it. We have also a mountain of iron, a field of diamonds and a forest of wood so hard that we find great difficulty in cutting it. On blocks of this wood I am now inscribing the infant history of our country.

“I am growing very old. My people have increased 70rapidly and great work has been done. The City and Temple are fast nearing completion; most of the streets are paved with hard stone and cultivated fields are about us; we have measured the length and breadth of our country and find that it is nearly three hundred miles square. We have driven the wild animals from our cultivated land into a section near the mountains, and at the border of this vast land of jungle and forest we are building a wall fifty feet high to keep the animals within bounds. We also built a stone viaduct to cross the lake in the cavern and several across the river which flows at the base of the southern mountains. During the building of these viaducts hundreds were engaged in keeping the laborers furnished with meat, the animals being skinned and dressed for food in the cavern. The inhabitants who died during the first twenty years of our settlement here were embalmed, and their bodies placed in the niches of the rock in the cavern. After this date the dead were cremated and this is now a law. I am now ninety years old and we have been in this country fifty years. The city and country has been named “ON,” in honor of me, because I led the people to it, and I have been the people’s chosen King since we left Egypt. I have laid down the laws which are to govern the people for all time. These laws I have made simple and just, guarding against any contingency or cause for dissension, profiting by the experiences of other countries. I have tried to formulate laws which will not allow of jealousies or covetousness.

“Again, the laws are aimed to make a race of people grand in physical strength and beautiful in moral character. All are equal in the eyes of the law. All 71are made to work at the different vocations. All are furnished with the same provisions and raiment. The best artisans have laid down rules to be followed by the people in architecture, sculpture, painting, and in the making of ornaments. The best agriculturists, the foremost of our quarrymen and miners have made new inventions and laid down rules which will lighten and facilitate their labors.

“To the religion taught by the Israelites I have added nothing. From their teachings I learned that they expected to have the Son of their God visit them at some future time. They also taught us that there was a great and eternal hereafter which was to be entered into after death, and I have made this hereafter so bright and beautiful that my countrymen will hail with delight their day of death. I have also made it possible to stop the over-increase of our people by a certain law. To guard against intemperate habits of any kind, by which so many diseases and so much unhappiness are brought into the world, I have established a law that all dying because of intemperance or over-indulgence in any of the necessary things of life will enter into everlasting punishment. I have made the delights of our future life so bright that my people will guard against everything which might bring on disease and premature death. Already the effects of these laws have been seen, for disease is passing away and my people are striving in every way to live until their day of death.

“I alone of the many Kings who are to follow me am allowed to reign for so many years. I have given myself the right to reign thus long because I wish to have my laws well-established before abdicating in 72favor of another. I have found that some of the laws first laid down were defective and by still retaining my sceptre I have been able to correct them. To the High Priest I have given certain knowledge which is denied the remainder of the people, and this knowledge is to be guarded by him as a sacred commandment to be imparted only to his successor.

“The language of my forefathers I have changed but little. I have added some few words from the language of the Israelites and a few from the Syriac. I have made the language as simple as possible as well as the hieroglyphics. The history of the reign of each King shall be inscribed on tablets of wood and placed in the secret chamber of the Temple but the people are to know nothing of their former history. This is done to keep them from knowing anything of the outside world. I wish them to believe that the world is bounded by the mountains which enclose their country; for thus believing they will remain together and will never undertake needless excursions into other countries, which would result in war and bloodshed. I wish them to be a peaceable, law-abiding people believing that they are the people and that theirs is the only country.

“I have fitted to the opening in the mountain a stone turning on pivots and opening by a secret spring, of which I alone know the secret. Those who fitted the stone were forbidden to speak of it and they have long since died, and the laws forbidding access to the inscribed history have been so well kept that none of my countrymen to-day are aware of the existence of an outside world.

“This is not a history, but a simple outline of the 73events which led to our emigration, the long journey, and the discovery of the country and the laws which I have made. I have inscribed this during my few leisure hours more for recreation than aught else. The history of our people and country will be found inscribed on the King’s tablets.

“I have made the one holiday of the Land of On, ‘The Day of Resis,’ and this day, if all of my laws are adhered to, will be the happiest day in the lives of those who participate in its ceremonies.”

Mrs. Graham had, during the past few weeks, given herself up to the comforts of her delightful boudoir, seldom accompanying her friends on the many excursions which were projected for their pleasure. The splendid attendance, the magnificent apartment, the sumptuous table, all tended to make her new life a happy one. It was just suited to the fastidious tastes of such a woman as Mrs. Graham, and she had determined to startle her native city with a reproduction of many of its delightful features.

Nellie had enjoyed the new life quite as much as her mother but in a different way. With Mr. Bruce she had visited every nook and corner of the Temple, and had taken sketches of the principal courts, colonnades and terraces, intending to copy them in oil at home. Then they had taken long walks through the 74city and visited the schools in which Nellie was especially interested; had remained one whole day in the provision market, where the inhabitants went each morning for the day’s supplies, and another in the mills where the cloth for wearing apparel was woven. They had spent many happy hours in the fine art studio, where beautiful statues were being carved out of blocks of onyx, and where pictures were being painted on flat pieces of hard wood.

There was also the school of architecture, where students between the ages of twelve and twenty were busy working out the difficult problems and drawings. In this building also were made the gold ornaments which were used in every household in rich profusion, in the shape of girdles for the waist, bands and ornaments for the hair. It was noticed that certain models were used for all these different works of fine art, and that nothing new was ever executed. As Onrai had told them, though, the models were perfect and nothing more beautiful could be conceived. They had also visited the parks, squares and principal thoroughfares, and had taken an interest in studying the architecture and furnishings of the different residences. All places were open to them and the greatest attention was paid them wherever they went.

This constant association and similarity of tastes had brought these two closer together, and although Mr. Bruce had never yet mentioned his love to Nellie, still he felt that she reciprocated that love.

Mr. Graham, sometimes accompanied by Harry, but oftener alone, had gone everywhere. He was in his element, for, astride of a beautiful zebra, he would take long rides into the country and spend whole days fishing 75on the small lakes, or at other times, would venture a short distance into the great hunting reserve. In this grand expanse of wild jungle and forest could be found every known species of African animal, and Mr. Graham was especially delighted in the hunting of large game. The laws governing these hunts were rather strange; the smallest of each species of animal was killed, the largest always being left. The same laws which governed the inhabitants were applied to the wild animals and also to those domesticated, allowing the larger to mate and bring forth healthy offspring. If a colt or baby elephant should be dwarfed at birth, or show any ailment afterward, it was instantly killed. By observing this law with the domestic animals, and in killing only the smaller of the wild animals, the whole race had become large and powerful.

Harry seemed to be the only unhappy one in the party. This was easily accounted for. During the long excursions the King would be at Enola’s side constantly, and Harry had hardly found time to speak with her alone since they had arrived in this, as he called it, barbarous land. Onrai always dined with the party and sat at Enola’s right. Harry had been given a seat the farthest from her; whether this was done intentionally or not, Harry could not say, but he fumed in silence. After the evening meal, Enola would invariably accompany Onrai to the terrace where they would sit until near midnight. Occasionally Harry would have a short talk with Enola in the morning, but even then their conversation was of Onrai.

Sedai had been given a home with one of the inhabitants and was enjoying the new life greatly. He had 76been given a zebra and spent most of the time on its back. Once each day he would go to the Temple to see his friends, and while there would tell of his exploits among the fair woman of the city. Because he was one of the party he was looked upon with great admiration. As he was but little below the height of the native men and was only a shade darker in color, the inhabitants had been led to believe that he was one of their own race, but had in some mysterious way left his own land and visited that planet from which the strangers were supposed to have come. The women smiled on him, the men treated him with the greatest respect and he could hardly help liking this new life. He had come up to the Temple on this morning to join the party in the royal hunt.

The rifles which our friends had brought with them they had never used for fear of the natives coveting them when they learned their value in the hunt, but now they felt, because of the great respect which had been shown them, that they and everything pertaining to them was held as sacred by the natives, and they had decided to use the guns on to-day’s hunt.

The morning was bright and the hour early when the party started. Enola and her friends were seated on huge black elephants with long formidable tusks and trained to the hunt. Around the neck and also around the body, just back of the howdah of each elephant was a band of gold, in which were embedded the handles of large pointed daggers, the blades pointing outward. These were placed for the protection of the elephants and of those who rode them. The rest of the party rode zebras which were to-day only plainly caparisoned. The weapons of the natives consisted 77of large cross-bows with quivers of flint-pointed arrows, daggers with long, narrow blades and axes with short handles.

About one hundred comprised the party, all well armed and impatient for the hunt. They traversed the same road over which our friends had been conducted when they first came to the city, and very soon passed through a huge gate on the border of the hunting reserve and then across the long stone bridge. Before going through the gate, the zebramen had all dismounted, leaving the zebras to graze in a near-by field until they returned. These men were to beat and cut the bush, to stir up the game and also to make a pathway for the hunters. The footmen went forward, and with huge clubs in one hand and axes in the other, opened up a passage-way. A little while later an open forest was reached and passed; the trees of this forest were literally alive with monkeys which chattered and made grimaces as the party passed. Deer were seen scampering away, and occasionally a huge boa constrictor could be seen crawling through the high grass or suspended from the limb of a tree waiting for its prey. On the opposite side of the forest a thick and almost impenetrable jungle confronted them, but the bush-beaters went to work again and a way was opened up.

Suddenly a roar was heard which was almost deafening. The elephants stopped and began to move their huge ears forward and back and give short cries similar to those of a baby. The men immediately scattered, dividing equally and moving to the right and left. Soon they had formed a circle about two hundred feet in diameter, and then commenced to 78close in toward the centre. This was slow work but they knew that it would not last long, as the lion or lioness would make a dash for liberty or jump at one of the party. Mr. Graham had directed his elephant near the circle and from his elevated point of view he could occasionally catch a glimpse of a tail above the bush. The men were slowly closing in on the lion and Mr. Graham held his rifle in readiness to get the first shot. Suddenly the lion raised on his haunches so that his head appeared above the bush. This was enough for Mr. Graham, and taking a quick aim at the head, he fired. The lion dropped, and the natives stood aghast at the sound of the shot and the sudden flash of fire and smoke which followed. Mr. Graham slipped from the back of the elephant and made for the bush and, with the help of an axe, which he was wielding, was fast nearing the lion, when the huge beast leaped into the air and struck him fairly on the side of the head. Mr. Bruce, who had half-expected something of the kind, had been waiting for the lion to leap, and as he appeared above the bushes, had aimed at a point just behind the brute’s shoulder and fired. Mr. Graham had been stunned by the powerful blow of the lion and Mrs. Graham screamed and fainted. Leaving the backs of their elephants, Onrai, Harry and Mr. Bruce hurried to their companion’s assistance, and soon reached the spot where he and the lion lay together. He was insensible and bleeding badly from his wound and with the lion lying dead over his lower limbs. Harry and Mr. Bruce called some of the natives, and together they moved the body of the lion, after which they carried Mr. Graham 79to an open place where his wound was washed and wine being poured between his lips he was soon restored to consciousness. Mrs. Graham was revived by Enola and Nellie, and Mr. Graham refusing to return, he again took his place in the howdah and the hunting party proceeded after leaving a number of the natives behind to skin the lion.

Mr. Bruce’s shot had struck the lion just behind the right shoulder and the bullet had penetrated the heart. It was lucky for Mr. Graham that it did so, for the lion, being maddened with pain, would soon have torn him to pieces. The King and his men looked at the lion carefully, turning it over and over, trying to find the marks of wounds such as their arrows would have made. Harry took his rifle, and handing it to the King, showed him how to hold it properly, and then how to aim it, telling him to aim at one of the lion’s paws. He did so, and pulled the trigger. The King dropped the gun as soon as it was discharged, alarmed at the loud report it had made so near his ears. Harry and the King went up to the lion and pointing to its huge paw, Harry showed Onrai the hole made by the bullet. He was greatly surprised, but could not understand it. Harry then showed him one of the cartridges and explained to him how the concussion caused the powder to ignite, forcing the bullet from the tube and through the gun-barrel with such swiftness as to penetrate anything that it came in contact with. Onrai slowly shook his head as if it were still a puzzle to him.

They again took up the march through the jungle, and presently came to a large stream which must have found its outlet in the river at the base of the mountains. 80They followed the bank of the river for some distance, until they came to a stone bridge over which they passed. Another open forest was entered, and here was seen the first herd of elephants. Upon catching sight of the elephants which our friends were riding, the curiosity of the herd was aroused, and they came crowding about the hunting party by scores. So quick had been their movements that the men on foot had time to do nothing but climb trees. These elephants were huge monsters, but did not seem ill-disposed towards our friends. They were very curious, and could not understand the queer things on the necks and backs of the domesticated elephants. They came crowding around our friends, shoving their trunks up into their faces and under the saddle-cloths, as if trying to find out all they could about these strange visitors. Occasionally one would come too close to the elephants of our party, and would be pricked by the long daggers about their bodies, when it would give a cry and retreat. The tame elephants paid no attention to the others, seeming to consider them as beneath their notice. They probably looked upon these denizens of the forest as our friends would on a band of savages. Their curiosity satisfied, they slowly retreated through the forest, throwing their enormous trunks into the trees and breaking off limbs half the size of a man’s body. The men came down from the trees and the party again took up the march.

They had proceeded but a short distance when a shriek of terror from Mrs. Graham caused all to look in her direction. A huge gorilla had sprung from a neighboring tree and seized her with his powerful arm, showing his white teeth and chattering wildly. For 81an instant all was confusion. Harry sprang to the rescue and before the animal could drag Mrs. Graham from the elephant, his rifle was emptied of its deadly load and the gorilla laid writhing on the ground.

With two such experiences in such a short time it was deemed expedient to abandon the hunt for the day, and though Mrs. Graham was sorry to cause this break in the programme she could not but admit her desire to leave a place so fraught with danger. So back through the jungle and forest, over the bridge and through the gate, and along the white road, the cool evening breeze now refreshing them after the fearful heat of the day, the party made its way toward the city.

The shock of the day before had left Mrs. Graham in a very nervous condition. Having arrived at the Temple, she was given into the hands of her attendants, who soon had her in the perfumed bath, and with a treatment much resembling our massage, she was soon brought out of her nervousness. Still to-day she was far from feeling like herself, and when Onrai had proposed a trip to the gold mine and quarries, she declined to go.

Mr. Graham, having already visited these places, decided to remain with his wife.

Onrai had each day since their arrival, projected 82some novel excursion or entertainment for our friends, the preparation for these always being both elaborate and complete. So much of interest was to be seen in this strange city and country, our friends never tired of these excursions. Many things were seen which contrasted favorably with similar contrivances in their own country. The streets were paved with the beautiful onyx, and were always scrupulously clean. There were no sidewalks, the pavements stretching from lawn to lawn. These pavements were cleaned once a day with a combination of sweeper, watering cart and dirt gatherer in one, which did its work most effectually. The contrivance, but for the material used in its construction, the striped animals pulling it, and the queer costumes of the drivers, would have caused no comments on the streets of an American city; for it looked like the invention of some modern genius.

This had been used, however, as had every other contrivance or machine, since the foundation of the city. In fact, the city or country must have been founded by a race who had reached a high point in civilization, for their architecture, their fine arts, their implements of manufacture and farming, all showed deep thought, careful study, and great knowledge of the principles involved. And the laws which were made to govern the people were perfect, and, being carried out, left perfect results.

But our friends had not seen all the wonders of this strange country, or the works of its people; nor had Onrai given to Enola or the rest of the strangers, any idea of the immense resources of this land. They had many things to learn still, and one thing in particular, 83which would startle and surprise them. Our friends were happy though, and not one of them had as yet given a thought to the returning to their homes. This life was so pleasant, every feature of it so enjoyable, they had little time or desire to think of aught else. The time would come, however, when a longing to see their friends left behind, to once more taste the delights and pleasures of modern civilization, to be where people talked and acted as themselves, would take such hold on them that they would wonder how they ever could have found any pleasure in this strange city and among a people which knew nothing, or cared to know nothing, but what had passed down to them from the founder of this country, who had lived thousands of years before.

But as yet this longing had not come to disturb their peaceful thoughts, and to-day, as they were about to start on another excursion to see more of the wonders of this strange country, they were never happier. As was customary on such occasions, our friends were mounted on the white elephants, accompanied by the king and ten zebramen, who acted as on escort.

Their first stop was to be at the onyx quarries, five miles distant. They started early, so as to reach the farthest point before the middle of the day, when the heat was so intense, it was hard to withstand it.

Their way led through a broad avenue lined on either side by tall palms, back of which were beautiful palaces, the large entrances being open, showing their dark, cool interiors. Many of the inhabitants were also on the street, enjoying the fresh morning breeze. Some were lounging about the broad terraces, while 84others were seated on onyx chairs, in the great gardens surrounding each house.

The sun, just rising above the eastern mountain, the songs of the birds, the perfume of the flowers wafted to them by the cool morning breeze, the beautiful palaces with the white-robed inhabitants lounging about them, the broad, paved avenue with the white elephants and beautiful zebras, moving stately along it, left but one thought in the minds of our friends, namely, that they would willingly brave the hardships, trials and dangers of their past journey, for this one short hour in the beautiful city of On. The paved avenue reached on as far as the Cave of Ice, which the party was to visit before their return.

At last the immense quarry of onyx was reached, and our friends stood in wonder, gazing at its great extent. At least forty acres of onyx had already been taken from the quarry, and huge blocks of the beautiful stone lay finished on the broad pavement, while others were being placed by means of levers, on rollers in readiness to be moved to the new building in course of construction in the city. Some of these blocks measured twenty feet in length, being five feet square.

These were moved to the city, and placed in position by means of rollers and derricks, the huge elephants doing most of the work. About the quarry were a great many beautiful columns, capitols, pedestals, stones for arches, balustrades, stairs, and roughly hewn statues, ready to be moved to the school of fine arts. A great many men were at work, all taking the greatest interest in their labors. The king explained that these men discontinued work at eleven o’clock, and were through for the day. At three o’clock another 85body of men went to work, and continued until seven in the evening. The following morning another body of men would take up the work, and so on, until each company of workingmen had taken their turn at the work in the quarries. From the time one company of men leave the quarry for any one of the other duties, which had to be performed, two weeks elapsed before they again returned. Four hours comprised a day’s work, and each day found the men at different employment from the one preceding it, until all of the different vocations had been temporarily filled.

The party now continued their journey, passing the gold mine on their way to the cave of winds, or ice. Arriving at the latter place, before going into the cave they were taken into a small house and given very warm garments of untanned lion skins, their attendants telling them that the air was very cold in the cave and the heavy garments would not feel uncomfortable. The King taking the lead, they were led to a large arched opening into the side of the mountain. Torches were carried by the attendants who preceded them.

A loud rumbling, which resembled the noise made by the great cataract of Niagara, soon fell on their ears, and this increased in volume as they penetrated farther into the mountain. The passage for some distance after entering, was about ten feet wide and that many high and large cakes of ice were piled up on each side as if waiting transportation. The passage soon widened until they found themselves in a large cave, the sides of which could not be seen in the darkness.

The air was growing colder each moment and the 86awful rumbling had become almost deafening. Far on ahead could be seen numerous lights flickering in the darkness, and upon our friends asking the King what this meant, he told them they were used to light the lake on which men were cutting ice. Here the torches were exchanged for a kind of lantern with a globe of mica, and before our friends had proceeded much further they realized why this was done, for a howling wind struck them broadside nearly knocking them from off their feet. The wind and the deafening noise it made in its wild rush through this subterranean passage was terrible. It was fearfully cold, too, and the attendants went among the party and adjusted the warm fur hoods over the heads and faces, leaving space only for the eyes and nose. Even these precautions did not save our friends from the piercing cold, for the blood had been accustomed to the equatorial heat on the outside and this quick change could not but make them shiver. Mr. Bruce calculated that the extreme cold would lower the mercury to 40 degrees, Fah., below zero, but he might have been mistaken, so long had it been since he experienced such freezing atmosphere.

On they went, fighting against the wind and cold until they reached the shore of the lake. Here about one hundred men were at work cutting ice, using a sort of long saw and an axe with a very large but narrow blade. The men were bundled up very carefully and worked very fast. The lake extended as far as could be seen in the darkness and was one solid sheet of ice with the exception of the place cut by the men, and even a film was already beginning to form over this. Near where our friends were standing was a 87flume or chute declining towards the entrance of the cave. The blocks of ice were brought to a point directly under this and being caught in a fork were raised by means of a windlass to the flume, where they were sent sliding to the entrance. An acre of ice was cut one day, and the following day another acre was cut, and by the next day, or at the end of forty-eight hours the ice had gained a thickness of ten inches over the acre that was cut on the first day. Thus had it gone on for centuries, each day an acre of ice being cut and supplied to the inhabitants. Each palace was furnished a quantity of ice sufficient for its needs. It was used for cooling the atmosphere as well as for drinks and preserving provisions.

Our friends now being thoroughly chilled, and having seen all they wished to, they left the cavern and as soon as the villa was entered, attendants took charge of them, and disrobing them, plunged them into a hot bath, after which they were given a good rubbing and dressed in the clothes which they had worn upon arriving. After this a meal was served them.

At three o’clock a start was made for the gold mine, and upon reaching this they were put into large cages and lowered down, down, down, until the very bowels of the earth must have been reached. They could see by the light of the torches, as they were lowered, the abandoned shafts which centuries before had probably been mined.

Down they went until the bottom was at last reached and they left the cage to explore the mines. The air was fearfully hot and would have been unbearable but for the cool air forced into the mines from above. Miners were at work, wearing nothing but a breechcloth. 88The quartz found at this depth was the richest our friends had ever seen or heard of. Mr. Graham calculated that it would assay about eighty per cent. pure gold, and the quartz was easily mined. Not many men were working in this mine, as the quartz was so heavy with gold, that but very little was needed to satisfy the demand.

Our friends wondered no longer at the profusion of gold ornaments and implements. Here was enough gold apparently to furnish the world for hundreds of years. The shaft which they were now working was easily one hundred feet wide and ten feet high. Just think of quartz assaying sixteen hundred pounds to the ton and thousands of tons in sight! Still these people did not consider it as valuable as iron, of which latter they had plenty, but which they found so hard to work. Onrai explained to our friends that the miners only worked one hour at a time and there were months at times when the mines were not worked at all, owing to an over-supply of gold. Truly these people were rich if they only knew it, but wealth was an unknown word to them.

The party, after being shown through some of the unused shafts, where there was also plenty of quartz, but of an inferior quality, was hoisted to the surface. The mill for crushing the quartz was shown them and the process proved very interesting.

They returned to the city in the cool of the evening, well satisfied with their day’s excursion. The longer our friends remained in this strange country, and the more they saw of its beauties and wealth, the more they were astonished at its vast resources. But they had seen only a small part of its wonders.

89

The island on which they now were was very small, not being more than one half mile in circumference. In fact it was a mere dot on the surface of this vast 95inland lake, but it was of considerable importance, nevertheless, for here the King made periodical excursions, and often took up his residence for weeks at a time in its charming villa. From the shore on which the party landed, the island rose gently to the centre, and on this slight eminence stood the villa. On the opposite side the shores were precipitous, rising in a cliff about fifty feet high. Bordering this cliff had been built a low, onyx wall and the intervening space between this and the villa had been laid out in a magnificent garden, filled with the redolent flowers so numerous in this country.

It was this delightful spot, shaded by immense palms and eucalyptus trees, which so pleased the King and which brought him here so frequently. From this garden could be seen the cliffs far away to the south and east and the fertile country lying between, and on the opposite side of the lake spreading on and on until merged into the blue horizon. Even from the broad dining hall, in which the party were now sitting, could be caught glimpses of the city as it lay bathed in the bright moonlight far away, and occasionally dim lights could be seen which shone from the open villa of the pink-white city.

“Look,” said Enola. “Is the scene not grand?”

“Yes,” said Harry, “the most exquisite picture I ever looked upon.”

“It is because of this natural picturesqueness that I visit this island so frequently,” said Onrai. “To me it has no equal, and I can conceive of nothing more beautiful.”

“No,” said Enola, “nothing could be more beautiful, for here we have every element which goes to make 96up a grand landscape; the distant city standing on the gentle slope of the foothills, the towering cliffs beyond, their jagged rocks softened by the moonlight; the broad fields, the noble forests, and about us the blue waters of the lake.”

“Truly a good country to live in,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Yes, a fair country, with which God has dealt most kindly,” said Mr. Graham.

The party arose and through the broad halls and lofty entrance they went into the garden; across this and near to the stone wall reclining seats had been placed for them. The scene which now met their gaze was ineffably grand. The lake lay before them like a sea of liquid silver the surface scarcely ruffled by the soft evening breeze; beyond, the shore of the mainland with its flickering lights, dimmed by the bright rays of the moon, and beyond these the magnificent panorama already described. The party sat for a long time lost in contemplation of the magnificent scenery.

“Look,” said Enola, “a boat.”

“No, Enola, not a boat,” said Onrai, “for it means death to any who may venture on the lake at night.”

“It may mean death, Onrai, but nevertheless some one of your countrymen has undertaken the hazardous journey to-night, for see, the lights in the bow shine brightly,” replied Enola.

Onrai had arisen as Enola had spoken, and stepping to the wall looked long at the black object coming toward them, then resuming his seat, he said:

“No, it is one of the monsters; those lights are its fiery eyes.”

A shudder ran through the frames of all present excepting Onrai, who had long since become accustomed 97to look upon these fearful sea serpents. On the black mass came, growing larger and larger as it neared them. Remembrances of the fearful race with and escape from the monster in the cavern came to the minds of those who had participated in this dreadful scene, and Mrs. Graham arising, said:

“Onrai, you will pardon, I hope, a woman’s faintheartedness, but I cannot look upon the scenes which we have been told by you will shortly take place near us; so with your kind permission I will retire to my apartment.”

“You have my permission most assuredly, Mrs. Graham, and it grieves me to think that I have been the cause of this disturbance of mind. When these monsters come together the battle will be fearful, and if the other ladies feel that they cannot witness it, it would be better for them to retire also, for see! other monsters are now coming, and the fight will soon commence.”

At this Nellie arose and together with her mother they entered the villa.

As Onrai had said, other black masses were now seen and the glow of red eyes shone through the semi-darkness from all directions. On came their bodies growing larger as they came nearer. Now the foremost had reached the base of the cliff and raising its huge body half out of the water, threw its ugly head back and fastened its glittering eyes on those who were watching its movements from above. The moon shone full on its long, dragon-like body and the party shuddered with horror as they recognized in it the exact counterpart of the sea-monster of the cave. After gazing on those above it for a full minute, and 98then realizing probably that they were out of its reach, the monster became enraged and, throwing itself back into the water beat the surface with its wing-like fins and long tail until almost lost to view in the foam thus created. But others had now come close to the rock, and as the number increased the water was blackened by their dark bodies. It was a mass of writhing, horror-depicting sea reptiles, and as they wound in and out under and over each other, their eyes glowing the while, it was enough to make the stoutest heart grow faint.

Suddenly one of them, which had been crowded close to the rocks by the great number from behind, and finding it impossible to extricate itself in any other way, dove, and piercing the body of the one next to it, held it half out of water, pinioned on its formidable horn.

“Ah, the battle has commenced,” said Onrai.

“It is fearful,” again said Enola.

“Horrible but fascinating,” said Mr. Bruce.

“This is but the beginning,” said Onrai. “In a few moments the whole seething mass will be engaged in one grand battle royal. If, Enola, you think you cannot look on this hideous spectacle, it would be better for you to retire now.”

“No,” said Enola, “I wish to see it all.”

They again turned their attention to the monsters. When the beast had been pierced by the horn of its companion, it had given out a fearful groan like that of a dying man. This seemed to be a signal, for immediately the beast began to beat the water with fins and tail, until the spray was forced upward almost splashing our friends. In fact the lake looked as if it 99had been struck by a hurricane so turbulent had the waters become. All this commotion was but preliminary, however, for it soon ceased, and all was perfectly quiet for a moment, when, as if moved by a common impulse the battle commenced in earnest.

Each had, seemingly, during the short interval of rest, selected its prey or opponent, for as far as could be seen the fight was a succession of duels, not more than two being engaged at once in tearing each other to pieces. Fastening their fiery eyes on each other they would retreat for a short distance, and then, with heads thrown back and their enormous jaws opened, would make a rush for each other, coming together with sickening force, their huge jaws crunching into each other’s bodies, or, perhaps fastening jaw into jaw. Then they would writhe and squirm, beating each other with their fins and tails. Upon becoming exhausted, if one or the other had not been overcome with the struggle they would disengage themselves, and retreating, rest for a moment and then make another rush for each other. Now they would dive, ripping each other with their murderous tusks, frequently both being beneath the surface, but the agitation of the water telling that the fearful battle was being continued far beneath.

Again they would rise to the surface, their bodies torn and lacerated, and blood from the gaping wounds dyeing the water a crimson red. One would finally succumb and the survivors, after giving their fallen antagonists a parting thrust, would swim away until outside the seething, battling mass. Here it would nurse its wounds, waiting seemingly for the horrible struggle to end. Here also it would be joined by 100other victors, but these undoubtedly having the proper respect for the fighting powers of those about them, would not again take the risk of being annihilated.

The duelling was becoming less fierce each moment for the weaker were fast being overcome and the survivors joining their victorious comrades. All this time the dreadful groans continued. Now the last victor had vanquished his foe and joined the others.

“Ah, the battle is finished,” said Mr. Bruce.

“No, not yet,” said Onrai. “Watch the line of victors.”

These had formed a straight compact line, and as if by a signal, they charged on the bodies of the dead and wounded floating on the surface. Their movements were as swift as lightning, and like a body of well-drilled cavalrymen they charged, killing the helpless wounded, and lacerating the bodies of the dead. Then they again retreated and, as the first faint rays of morn streaked the eastern heavens, they sank beneath the surface, leaving the bodies of their victims to rot in the heat of the equatorial sun.

When the party again reached the mainland, they were taken to the villa in which they were to spend the night. The men returned to the lake in the evening and watched the process of cutting up the monsters, and taking from them the fat which produced the oil. The remains of the animals were then piled in heaps and burned. One hundred and four had been killed the night before, but how many still remained to be slaughtered by their mates?

As the men stood watching the scene, Onrai said:

“This sight is even becoming loathsome to me; let us return to the villa.”

101As they were crossing the broad avenue, a suspicion of music was wafted from the direction of the city. It was so faint that our friends could not say whether it was the music of distant harps, or the song of some night bird, far away. They stopped for a moment and listened, but the sound not again being heard, they resumed their walk toward the villa.

Onrai had also stopped and seemed to be listening, but had offered no explanation until they again started for the villa. Our friends seemed to think he could explain this distant music if he wished to, and they looked at him inquiringly. Noticing this look, Onrai said:

“In two months comes the Day of Resis. It is our custom during the two months previous to this day to sing songs of praise at this hour each evening.”

“Are they songs of joy and happiness?” asked Mr. Bruce.

“They are,” said Onrai. But he would say nothing further on the subject.

As the night came on and the glorious moon rose high into the heavens, bathing all in its silvery rays, the very beauty of the scene made our friends forget the horrors of the night before. They had assembled in the garden, and the swinging chairs, as they were moved slowly backward and forward by the attendants, 102were conducive to rest and comfort. They were far enough removed from the lake to be entirely free from any suggestions which its busy scenes might make.

Near Enola stood the great white elephant, which she rode on all journeys, its huge body towering into the air and nearly touching the lower boughs of the trees. This elephant had become so attached to Enola that it seemed happy only when with her, and she had requested of Onrai that he allow “Gip,” as she had named it, to come into the garden while they were there. He had now taken hold of the rope with his trunk and was swinging the chair as carefully as could be done by the attendants. Occasionally he would let out that peculiar cry so much like an infant’s, when Enola would hand him one of the sweets which she always had about her when he was near.

Several of the zebras were also grazing in the garden and the deer, which were numerous, would come up now and then, and with their great liquid eyes, gaze into the faces of our friends. There was no timidity in these animals, for they were all treated so kindly, and had so long been made pets of, that all fear of the human form had left them.

The lofty trees, the flower-bedecked garden with the animals wandering through it, the perfumed air, the pink onyx villa in the background, the silk-robed party swinging lazily to and fro, the attendants standing near, and above all, the glorious moon, made an enchanting scene. Suddenly, as if in a dream, too faint almost to be heard, was wafted on the evening breeze a strain as sweet and indistinct as the low melody of 103an Æolian harp. Onrai half rose and as the music grew stronger he became erect, and bowing his head, almost whispered, “’Tis the night of prayer.”

The attendants discontinued the swinging of the chairs and also bowed their heads. Our friends, half aroused from the sweet languor into which they had fallen, looked with wondering eyes at Onrai. The exquisite music was coming nearer and nearer, and now could be discerned harmonious voices mingling with the strains of the harp. On and on they came, the music growing louder and stronger, but losing none of its sweetness. Onrai and the attendants still stood with bowed heads, and in a subdued voice, Onrai was evidently repeating a prayer. So impressive was the beautiful music and the devout attitude of those about them, our friends were deeply moved, and had now also arisen and were standing with bent heads and clasped hands, breathing a prayer.

Now those who were making such sweet music had reached the villa, and our friends raising their eyes, looked upon a picture. Standing in the foreground, with his arm thrown over the neck of the zebra, from which he had dismounted, and holding in one hand a shepherd’s hook, was a white-robed priest. Grouped in a semicircle about him, were a number of maidens all carrying tiny torches. Back of them was a body of men, and still further in the background were the elephants and zebras which had brought the party from the city.

As they stood there, Onrai approached and spoke to the priest in the native tongue. Then, with the King leading, they went direct to the villa and entered.

104“How strange,” said Enola, when Onrai with his visitors had left them alone.

“Strange indeed,” said Mr. Graham. “Can it be that they bring unexpected news from the city?”

“It is hard to tell,” said Mr. Bruce. “But I think not. It is evidently a celebration of one of their religious rites. From the solemn proceedings I should say that this was so.”

Just then Onrai was seen approaching them and when he was directly opposite, he said:

“’Tis the night of prayer, come;” and turning, he retraced his steps with our friends following.

They were led through the wide hall to a spacious apartment in the rear. This apartment was the exact counterpart of the large devotional chamber in the Temple, but somewhat smaller. Subdued lights were placed at frequent intervals about the sides of the apartment, and others hung from the lofty ceiling. In the centre was a wide, crescent-shaped platform, and standing about its base were those who had so recently come from the city.

As the King entered with our party the natives commenced playing on their native harps, and the low, sweet music penetrated to the very souls of our friends. Onrai led them to the platform on which seats had been placed; then the priest also mounted the platform, and facing the King, commenced reading in the native tongue from one of the polished tablets of wood. He then passed this to the King and he, arising, read from it the same inscription. Then the priest raised his hand, and all joined in a chant, the maidens accompanying the voices on the harps. It was solemn but grand and very impressive. The chant ended, the 105priest again turned toward the King and began speaking, the maidens in the meanwhile playing a sweet refrain on the harps. The priest having finished speaking, the King arose, turned his face heavenward and prayed:

“God our Father, God of the Heavens and earth, God of On, God of all, as the flowers turn their faces to the great orb of day, so we on this night of prayer, turn our faces to Thee. O God, we know that all blessings come from Thee and we thank Thee. We thank Thee for the fertile fields, the green pastures, the silvery waters, the shady forest, the life-giving sun of day, the soft-lighted moon and cool breezes of the night. We feel Thy presence O God, we know that Thou art near us. Still be with us and when our time has come take us home to Thee, our God, our Father.”

Onrai ceased praying and the sweet voices and the music of the harps again broke forth. Now the voices grew fainter, the music more subdued, the lights growing dimmer and dimmer. Now the voices were almost whispering, the strains of music are dying, dying, the lights are flickering. At last all is hushed and dark. Suddenly the Temple was flooded with brilliant light, a glorious grand flood of song and music burst forth. More brilliant becomes the light, louder and grander grows the music, as if from a thousand voices, as if from a thousand harps. Now comes a troop of maidens robed in shimmering white, singing and playing. Lightly they trip over the polished floor, their forms swaying and their limbs bending gracefully as they dance.

Our friends hold their breath for fear of losing one strain of the sweet music; they lean forward eagerly 106to catch every movement of the willowy figures. All is grand beyond conception. The music becomes more soul-stirring, the dance grows quicker, the lights blinding in their brilliancy. Our friends arise in their eagerness to see and hear. ’Tis glorious!

Suddenly the maidens leave the room, the song and music cease, the lights are darkened. ’Tis over.

The night of prayer with its grand and imposing ceremonies had passed, and now the party had again assembled and were partaking of the morning meal preparatory to starting on the day’s journey. It was yet very early, for in this equatorial climate the journeys had to be taken in the cool of the mornings and evenings. The sun’s rays in the middle of the day were too hot to withstand. Through the open door could be seen the elephants and zebras trapped and waiting for the start. Nearby stood, not only the attendants, but also the party which had arrived the night before. Turning to Onrai, Enola asked:

“Are those who came from the city also to accompany us, Onrai?”

“Yes,” answered Onrai, “it is essential that they should go with us, for we shall not have returned to the city before the night of prayer shall have again come, and on this night we must have a priest and attendants.”

107

So absorbed had Enola and Onrai been in their talk that the storm had been forgotten for the moment. But it had not abated but had rather grown fiercer and blacker, until now it was so dark that objects only a short distance away could not be seen. The elephants could be heard stalking through the garden, and occasionally their huge bodies and also 115the zebras would be lit up by the lurid lightning. But the wind had died down to almost a calm a few moments before, and nothing had broken the stillness of the night but the sharp peals of thunder which would follow the brilliant lightning.

But as Onrai spoke, a rumbling was heard, not like distant thunder, but less distinct, like the rattling of a distant railway train, the sound being regular but growing louder each moment. The others of the party now joined Enola and Onrai, and the attendants grouped themselves about the terrace. There was no fear depicted on their faces, or shown in their actions, but there was the greatest wonderment. This was something unheard of, a storm like this promised to be, in the heart of the dry season; still fear was unknown to them, or that fear which is caused by a possibility of bodily suffering. They simply wondered and did not even try to make out the mystery.

Now the elephants seemed to scent danger, for they would sniff the air and then give out that peculiar cry. The zebras had gathered together in one part of the garden and would neigh in a pitiful manner as if expecting danger. The rumbling grew louder and more distinct and now sounded like the falling of many trees. The heavens were lurid with flash after flash of lightning, this lending a fearfulness to the scene which was awful. Now the elephants came up quite near to the terrace as if trying to find a place of refuge, and standing together with their backs turned toward the storm waited for the worst. Then the trees gave out a gentle wail as they were touched with the first breath of the wind; then they began to sway and groan as if in mortal agony. Each moment the 116wind grew more fierce, the lightning more vivid, the rumbling more deafening.

“Is this not unusual, Onrai?” asked Mr. Graham.

“It has never before happened at this time of the year,” said Onrai. “At this season we never expect rain and depend wholly on the heavy dews to moisten our vegetation.”

“It seems to be very fierce. Are your storms all like this?” asked Mr. Bruce.

“We have very hard storms accompanied by very strong winds, but I have never seen, or heard anything like this. Listen; is it not growing worse?” and Onrai’s face for the first time looked troubled.

“Yes, very much worse,” said Harry, “and I would advise that we all go inside the villa.”

“No, Harry,” said Enola, “let us remain outside until driven in. The sight is too grand to lose.”

“I am willing to remain but it is much safer inside during a storm like this,” said Harry.

Now the noise drowned their voices and conversation was given up. The air seemed full of electricity; the flesh tingled with it; the nostrils inhaled it and a copperish taste was left in the mouth.

“Look,” shouted Enola, “what is that fearful mass approaching, and hear that terrible sound. It is like the dashing of thousands of waves against the rocks, or the tearing asunder of mighty mountains.”

This was true; and now in the lurid lightning could be seen the dark clouds flying over Mother Earth, crushing all in its way. On the left of the villa was an open space, probably five miles broad, and on the far edge of this, as Enola spoke, could be seen the black cloud approaching. It seemed to take everything in 117its course and now the air was filled with all kinds of debris; huge logs of wood and even large boulders were seen flying through the air. It was a seething, hurling mass, made more awful by the ear-piercing noise and the continuous lightning.

“A cyclone,” shouted Mr. Graham, but his voice could hardly be heard above the fearful din. “Hasten,” he continued, “into the house,” and leading his wife by one hand and Nellie by the other he hurried toward the entrance.

Onrai took Enola by the arm and was hurrying with all speed toward the large arch, when Enola, looking at the elephants, saw Gip looking pitifully at her and extending his trunk toward her as if begging her to help him. “Poor Gip,” she said, and freeing herself from Onrai’s retaining arm, she walked to the edge of the terrace and patted the elephant on the trunk stretched toward her.

“Come Enola or it will be too late,” said Onrai. But it was even then too late, for Enola had leaned too far over the edge and losing her balance, fell to the lawn beneath. The distance was not great and Enola was not hurt, so she picked herself up and started for the steps leading to the terrace. But the wind had now grown so fierce she could hardly keep an upright position, and before she realized it she was being hurried forward with a speed which almost took her feet from under her. On by the steps she sped, unable to battle against the wind and force her way up these.

Gip had followed her, wonderingly at first, but at last, seeming to realize her peril, quickened his pace and just as the wind was about to hurl her to the 118ground, he grasped her about the waist with his powerful trunk and turned toward the terrace again; but the awful wind was even stronger than this mighty animal, and he was losing ground each step. Bravely he battled, holding Enola far above his head, his trunk encircling her body just tightly enough to keep her from slipping through its folds. His great body now began to sway in the gale and it looked for a moment as if both elephant and Enola would be picked up and swept into the fearful, swirling holocaust overhead.

Gip knew his danger, so turning his back to the storm he hurried on with it. At first he traveled only in a trot as if reluctant to give up to the power of the storm, but his pace grew faster and faster as this fearful power asserted itself, until he was flying over the ground, he seemed to no longer touch the ground so rapid was his pace. He had thrown Enola over on his back so that she could rest her limbs, but he still kept a firm hold on her with his trunk, and they kept up the mad rush together. The air was filled with debris of all kinds and Enola was afraid to open her eyes for fear of being blinded. On they rushed, the elephant keeping up the mad pace before the wind. One moment it would be as black as Erebus; the next the lightning’s glare would break through the dirt filled atmosphere. It was a seething mass, a hurricane sweeping all before it; twisting trees from their roots or snapping their huge trunks like straws; sucking up great quantities of water as it crossed inlets of the lake; picking up in its mighty grasp cows, sheep, deer, zebra and all other animals excepting the huge elephants, whose great weight kept them from being carried from earth.

119Enola was lying flat on Gip’s back, he holding her there as if he understood that she would be drawn from his grasp if he allowed her to sit up for even a moment. Grandly the noble beast fought against the fearful storm; the awful pace had now kept up so long he was fast giving out, and Enola could feel his grasp growing weaker, and feel the weary limbs give way when they would strike the earth; his breath came quick and he was gasping like a dying human being; but he kept on fighting, still fighting that enemy which was each moment getting the best of his efforts.

He stumbled and fell to his knees, but he was up again in an instant and hurrying before the wind; again he fell, and this time his huge body lay flat on its side, but he had held Enola aloof and she had been only slightly jarred. A groan escaped the noble beast as he tried to regain his feet. “Brave Gip!” said Enola, as she patted him on the trunk. “Once more, Gip, just once more, my noble friend, and we may yet escape.” Gip made a supreme effort, and regained his feet. The thought now occurred to Enola that if she could guide the elephant out of this current of wind which was hurrying them on to destruction, they might yet be saved. She had seen the attendants touch the elephants on the right or left side of the head when wanting them to move in either direction, and she determined to try it. Reaching her hand out as far as she could, she was just able to touch the right ear of the elephant.

She struck this with her open hand, saying, “Try it, Gip, good Gip,” and Gip, with strength nearly gone, turned as much to the right as possible, and beating against the strong wind, hurried on as fast as his 120weakened condition would allow him. In thus beating against the storm in an oblique direction, it brought them in a direct line with the flying debris, and Enola began to be bruised by the sticks and small stones which filled the air. She could hardly breathe either, for the dust and dirt which were swept up by the swirling current. She tried to protect her face with her hands, but these were soon raw and bleeding with the sand blast. Her eyes were filled with dirt, and her throat was dry and parched with the inhalation of the dirt-filled atmosphere.

She was suffering fearful agonies, and her suffering was growing worse every moment; she tried to hold her face closer to the elephant’s back, but she was too weak now to make any exertion at all. On the great, brave beast moved, his body swaying with the wind, and each minute looking as if he must give up the struggle. Now the fury of the storm seemed to have grown worse, and the next instant it seemed to be abating. This would give hope to the suffering girl and to the animal, and a moment’s breathing space in which they could recuperate slightly and prepare for a renewed effort.

It was just after one of these momentary spells of comparative quiet, that Gip, reeling and almost falling, had tried to pull himself together for another trial. His massive body seemed almost rigid as he stopped for a moment and braced himself; he half released his hold on Enola, and she, almost exhausted, felt that the grand fortitude of the animal and his sublime strength had given way, and that hope was indeed gone. But no; Gip shook all over; and, his nerves again relieved, made a last effort to go on. Painfully 121he strode on, never for a moment leaving the course which Enola had started him on.

The air seemed to grow thicker with sand and dust, while above them and all about them were flying logs, trees and stones. Enola was bruised and bleeding and she was on the point of fainting, when she opened her eyes for a moment, and just in time to see a huge tree fly through the air, and strike Gip fairly on the side of the head. Down he went like a shot, carrying Enola with him, but still holding her in his trunk. He had made a brave fight and lost.

Sedai, who had been such a prominent figure in the first part of the journey, and who had played such a part in the real cause of the expedition, had not been forgotten since reaching the Land of On, but so many new and strange things had come up to occupy the time and minds of our friends, and so many attendants had been placed at their disposal, Sedai had not been called upon to perform the many little duties to which he had become accustomed, and he was left to enjoy himself much as he saw fit. He had accompanied the party on the first part of the journey, but the King wished to send word back to the city, of the change in the programme and of their intention to proceed to the far end of the country before their return, and Sedai had offered to carry the message. Not 122that native messengers were wanting, but Sedai seemed to find more enjoyment in the delightfully cool and comfortable city than he did riding through the somewhat heated country.

But he had been too long accustomed to the march, and the white companions of the past few weeks had become too dear to him, to long remain away from them; so after spending one day in the city, he determined to start out and overtake the party. But now a strange thing occurred. Far off in the west, just creeping up from the horizon, rose a dark cloud, at first no larger than a zebra, but growing in size each moment and fast approaching the city. It soon overcast half the heavens and the entire populace was standing in the streets gazing at this wonder. The cloud had cut off the twilight completely and now, while it was yet early, darkness was over all, a darkness which was appalling. The populace exchanged looks of wonderment, but offered no explanation of this strange freak of the elements.

Sedai, who had long been accustomed to seeing these fearful electric and wind storms, was surprised to see the wonderment in the faces of these people. Turning to one who was near him, he said:

“Why do you gaze at the heavens in that way; have you never before seen a storm?”

“Many of them,” answered the man, “but never at this time of the year, and never at any time as fierce a one as this promises to be.”

“It does indeed look very threatening,” said Sedai.

The night grew even darker, and then the lightning broke through the black clouds for a moment illuminating the beautiful city which the inhabitants had 123for the first time in their lives, failed to lighten. The thunder rolled up from the west, making a deafening roar, and still the people stood gazing, so overpowered were they by this strange event. And now the fitful gusts of wind reached them, and then a few drops of rain fell; and listen: what is that fearful sound. It is not thunder, for the thunder is roaring peal on peal and cannot be mistaken. This is something else. It can be heard only when the thunder rests for a moment. And it is growing nearer, and a little longer and it seems to be almost on them.

Like a flash it comes to Sedai.

“It is the simoon,” he cries, in such an alarmed voice that all look at him in surprise. Again he called out, “the simoon.” And now the natives all crowded around asking him what he meant. He had not learned the language sufficiently to make them understand by words, but by making signs he explained to them how the great winds sweep over the earth, leveling houses, trees and all else to the ground. Even then they showed no signs of fear. But one of them happened to remember the King, and that he, with the strange guests, was somewhere in the country, over which the storm was now approaching.

“The King,” the man cried, and then, the others catching his meaning, and realizing the King’s danger, the cry of “the King” rose high above the roar of the storm.

Sedai grasped the situation at once and knew that the King and his friends must be in imminent peril. The storm had come up just at that hour of the evening when the party, having rested during the heat of the day, might be expected to be on the road. If this 124was true and they were near no villa at the time, they must have fallen victims to the storm. But the populace was also fully aroused now, and already men were appearing in the streets astride of zebras, waiting only for others to congregate when they would hurry on to the rescue of the King and his party, if it was not already too late.

Sedai also brought out his zebra and joining the party, they started for the shore of the lake, knowing that somewhere near this would be found the King and his party. They started down the Avenue of On with the hope of reaching the King and his friends in time to help them, but the air was now becoming thick with sand and even sticks and stones, and the rescuing party were riding right in the face of this merciless hurricane. The zebras held their heads far down and moved on determinedly. Their riders lay close to their necks, endeavoring in this way to protect their faces. But it grew worse. The zebras, now thoroughly blinded, stumbled on, making heroic efforts to keep up the uneven struggle, but their pace was growing slower and slower and there seemed to be no chance for their getting much further. Suddenly Sedai’s zebra turned to the right and left the avenue, the others followed. The party dared not open their eyes to see where the zebras were taking them, but after a little while noticing a cessation of the pitiless rain of sand and gravel, they opened their eyes as well as they could, and found that the animals had left the road and had sought shelter from the fearful storm near one of the farm villas. They had stopped under the east wall which protected them to some extent.

The men hurriedly dismounted and led the zebras 125to the large stable in the rear. All realized that it was useless to try to proceed further in the pitiless storm; it would only be death to do so, and they could not help their friends if they were in such a condition as the storm promised to put them in if they continued. Another hour of that fearful onslaught of gravel and sand, and small sticks and twigs, and every man would be dead. So they determined to wait until the storm would abate, when they would hurry on and give assistance to their friends, if it was not forever too late.

The inky blackness of the night, lit up only occasionally by the lightning, the fearful peals of thunder, the roaring of the storm as it rushed madly on, made the night one never to be forgotten. It must have been several hours past midnight before it abated in the least, and after it had once spent its wild fury it died quickly, and in a very short time it was perfectly calm.

Sounds of wounded and distressed animals could now be heard, pitiful in their mournful cries; trees could still be heard falling, and the night-birds which had escaped the fury of the storm, again took up their flight, giving out most dismal screeches. But the storm had passed, and Sedai and his party were again moving slowly along the avenue, for the night was still dark and many fallen trees now covered this beautiful highway.

So hurrying was out of the question, but the zebras, who had had their eyes washed out in the stable, and keen-sighted and sure-footed now, they went along at a good pace, considering the condition of the road. But it was so dark, and they had now proceeded far 126enough on their journey to expect to meet couriers from the King and party, if there were any left to tell the tale. Torches had been procured at the villa at which they had sought shelter, and lighting these, they carried them high above their heads with good effect. The lights threw weird shadows along the avenue as they picked their way through the debris. The storm seemed not to have touched the avenue or the grand trees bordering it, but had taken a course parallel to this, the outer edge of which had come very close to the southern border of the avenue. It was not, then, the avenue shade trees which occasionally lay across it, but the forest trees which covered the fields on each side. So close, however, had the tornado or cyclone come to the avenue, that some of the branches of its bordering trees had been cut off as with a knife.

Occasionally, in the glare of the torches, a wounded or dead animal would be seen. In one instance, a deer had been killed by a falling tree, and its mate, which had probably been with it at the time, now lay beside its dead licking the eyes and face. Again, a zebra had been torn and lacerated by the fierceness of the storm, and as it saw the lights and the familiar forms of the zebra in the cavalcade, it made a painful effort to rise and follow. Sedai seeing its suffering, dismounted and killed the poor beast, thus putting it out of its misery. The onyx pavement was covered with dead and wounded birds, the storm having played greater havoc among the winged inhabitants, than among any of the other.

At last faint streaks of dawn lighted up the eastern heaven, and gradually it grew lighter, until the great hot sun burst forth, its rays disclosing a scene of fearful 127devastation. But our friends had but little time to notice all of this. They were looking for the wounded or dead bodies of the King and his party. But look as they might, they could not see either a wounded or dead zebra or elephant, in this part of the avenue. This was probably because these animals had stables, into which they could run if they chose, and as all the buildings were of onyx, and built to stand for centuries, the storm’s violence had no effect on them.

The rescuing party’s progress had necessarily been slow, for they were not only hindered by fallen trees and other debris which strewed the avenue, but a great deal of time had been taken up in looking over the ground carefully, they fearing that if they did not do this, they might pass some of their wounded friends. They had now reached the lake, and the numerous inlets, or bays, which stretched into the mainland for a short distance, showed, from the appearance of their banks, that they had also received harsh treatment by the storm. Near one of these, lay, with its body half twisted in two, one of the sea monsters which had been sucked from the stream and hurled against a neighboring tree. Many fishermen’s boats were strewn along the banks smashed to splinters. The villa in which the King and party had spent the night of prayer, was visited by the rescuers, but the bewildered attendants here could only say that the King and his party had left the morning before, and had not again returned. Then Sedai, and those with him, after exchanging their poor, tired zebras for fresh ones, and after a hasty meal, pushed on. They might reasonably suppose that the party had reached a point at least twenty miles farther to the northwest before 128the storm broke in its fury; but it might have been that they saw the storm approaching even before those in the city did, and fearing serious consequences had turned back. In this case the rescuers might expect to meet them at any time now and especial care was taken to look behind each fallen tree or pile of debris.

An elephant had been taken along from the last villa in hopes that he might be able to sooner detect their near approach to any of his companions used by Onrai and his party. These animals are very sagacious and their senses are very acute, they being able to hear the slightest noise or see the most minute object, while their scent is only equaled by a bloodhound.

Carefully this great beast picked his way, stepping gingerly over the fallen trees and testing each bridge with his fore legs before venturing to cross it. The distance between the villa and where our friends might expect to be found, if safe, was now half covered and the rescuers had gained heart with each step forward, for if those whom they were seeking were not found within the next few miles, they would know that they were safe. Suddenly the elephant stopped, and sniffing the air gave a sharp, quick cry. Looking to the left the party saw the huge body of an elephant, and beside it that of a woman.

129

As both parties met and looked down on the bruised and blackened face of Enola, a cry of horror went up from each one of them. Hope had still had life as long as there was any uncertainty, but now it had met its death.

“Look,” said Harry, “the elephant is not dead. See, he is trying to move his head.”

Hurriedly the party dismounted, and Onrai lifted Enola carefully in his arms. She had fallen across Gip’s outstretched trunk when the crash came, and here she now laid. When Onrai lifted her up, Gip tried to raise his head, but this he could not do. The whole side of it was crushed in, or the lower part of it was, and he looked up with pitiful eyes, begging help from the party bending over him.

Onrai still had Enola in his arms when Mr. Bruce came up and said:

“Lay her down on the grass, Onrai, until I can make 135an examination. Quick, she may yet be living; the elephant is.”

Carefully Onrai laid her on the grass, holding her head in his lap. Mr. Bruce bent down, and placing his ear to her heart, said:

“She yet lives. Quick, bring me a flask of brandy.” A flask was handed him, and placing this to the lips of Enola, poured a few drops down her throat. “Bring some water,” he again commanded, and this having been handed him, he bathed her bruised face and hands with it. She was badly lacerated, the cuts not being deep, but so many of them that an inch of whole skin could scarcely be found.

Harry looked as long as he could, but finally walked away; the sight of his loved one in this condition crazing him.

But for the faint beating of the heart, all would have pronounced her dead, for it could scarcely be hoped that one so terribly cut and bruised could survive. Even the body had not been spared, and great blotches of flesh had been torn from it by contact with the flying debris.

“Is there hope?” almost whispered Onrai.

“I cannot say,” said Mr. Bruce. “But if blood-poisoning does not set in, I should think, with her splendid constitution, she might get well. But she has laid here for hours exposed, and it is greatly against her chances for recovery. She must be taken where women attendants can help her, and that immediately.” And Mr. Bruce had to again place his ear over the region of the heart in order to tell whether she was yet alive.

136“See, she opens her eyes,” said Harry, as he again comes up.

Yes, it was true, she had opened her eyes, but only for an instant, and then closed them again.

“Enola, look; do you not know us?” said Harry, as he bent over her.

Her eyes again opened, and she tried to part her parched and bleeding lips, but she had not yet the strength.

“There may be some hope now, I think,” said Mr. Bruce.

Hurriedly a litter was made from the blanket taken from the elephant, and with one of her friends at each corner of this, Enola was carried to the nearest villa. This was not far away, and, when reached, attendants were found in waiting, and Enola being carried to one of the large, cool and comfortable apartments, she was soon under the care of female attendants. Carefully they bathed the bruised and bleeding body, and under Mr. Bruce’s orders they anointed and bandaged the cuts. Finally, after long and hard work, and after hope of resuscitating her was nearly lost, she opened her eyes.

Mr. Bruce was standing at her side at the time, and seeing that she had regained consciousness, and that danger for the time was passed, he carried the glad news to the anxious ones waiting for his report. All immediate anxiety being allayed they breathed freer. Onrai, who now felt at liberty to return to the city, began to make preparations for so doing, he feeling that at such a time his presence was greatly needed among his people. Accordingly he took a few of his attendants, and after making arrangements for hourly 137messengers to be sent him, giving full account of Enola’s condition, he started. Just before leaving, Enola opened her eyes, and after a moment, uttered the one word, “Gip.”

It was perfectly natural that returning consciousness should bring to memory the fearful experiences of the night before and of the brave animal which had fought so nobly to protect, and save her life. In their anxiety for Enola all thought of poor Gip had been forgotten, but when she spoke his name and they knew that she was anxious about him, and when they remembered all that he had done for her, they censured themselves for having forgotten him for even a moment.

Onrai gave orders to some of his people to go to the assistance of Gip, and to do all in their power to relieve the noble beast, if yet alive. Mr. Bruce, not being needed for the time in the sick-room, went with the party as did also Sedai. The great animal heard them coming, and tried to raise his shattered head, but could not. A slight movement of the trunk was the only sign of life he could give. Mr. Bruce had not made a study of the anatomy of the elephant, and he understood very little about them, but he determined to do all he could for the animal.

Gip had unfortunately fallen on his right side and it was necessary for them to turn him over. This was no easy task; in fact it looked at first as if this could not be accomplished; but Mr. Bruce quickly thought out a plan which proved successful. Large ropes were tied to the legs of the side on which the animal was lying, and by a long and hard pull he was turned over onto the unbruised side. A groan, almost human in 138its intensity, escaped the crushed beast, as he was pulled over but he seemed to understand that his friends were there to help him. Mr. Bruce commenced at once to examine his wounds.

The lower side of the head had been crushed and the body for half its length was lacerated. He had fallen on these wounds and the sand and gravel which covered the ground had worked into the wounds and were now held there by clotted blood. Water was brought from the lake and poured into the wounds until cleansed of all dirt, and then soothing liniments were poured into them. Gip did not make a movement, the great intelligent beast realizing that all this washing and anointing was being done to help him. It was a question as to how they were going to bandage the huge body, and after careful consideration this was deemed impossible until he could stand, as they could not carry the bandage about the body otherwise. The head, however, was lifted by the exertions of a dozen of the attendants and great, white silk bandages were carried around the monstrous hulk. Pails of water were now brought and he drew in great draughts with his trunk. Food was also brought where he could reach it. Everything that could possibly be done for his comfort was done, and two men were left to watch over the animal until evening, when he was to be again bandaged, and, if possible, gotten on his feet and taken to the villa.

Mr. Bruce now hurried back to the villa. He had been gone for some time and he feared that Enola might need his attention. He had considerable misgiving regarding her speedy recovery, or even her recovery at all, for she had been fearfully bruised and 139cut, and had been so long exposed afterward, that there was great fear of blood-poisoning setting in. He realized what this wonderful woman had undergone in these few short hours, and he doubted if another could have passed through such an ordeal and lived. But Enola had a perfectly healthy constitution and Mr. Bruce had a faint hope that this intrepid girl might pull through.

As he entered the villa, Nellie, who had been sent for, met him in the hall, and to his look of inquiry, said,

“She has awakened but her mind is gone; she is mad.”

Onrai hurried on to the city. At frequent intervals on his journey he met couriers from the city, all hurrying to give him the details of new discoveries of the storm’s devastation. The track of the tempest, as he now followed it, so shortly after its fearful advent, showed ruin and death everywhere. But so far no loss of human life had been reported and the King felt more than thankful for this. As the inhabitants would meet the King, they would look at him in the same wondering way as they had at the storm the night before, they were evidently seeking an explanation from their King, of the phenomenon. When they did ask him why 140such ruin had overtaken them, he would invariably answer by saying that there was sin among them. Then they would look one at the other as if wondering, if it were he or she who was guilty.

Arriving at the city, he found the populace awaiting him. On all previous occasions when Onrai had been away from the city for a season, upon his return the people had been glad to see him and had met him at the city limits with harps and glad songs. But now they stood and looked with no joy in their faces; but this was easy to account for. The people had never before in their lives had one little thing to occur to disturb the even tenor of their existence. Their lives were simply one long, happy or perfectly contented existence, they knowing no pains or sorrows.

The seasons came and went, each occupying just so many months, never varying greatly one from the other, for it was perpetual spring in this delightful country. But at one season more rain fell than at another, and for several months of each year rain never fell. Severe storms were very infrequent and such storms as the one of the night previous had never been known before. And this had happened right in the middle of the dry season. It was not so much this latter fact probably which made the people wonder, as it was the death and ruin which it left in its wake. This the people could not understand, for life to them was a sacred thing, even those animals of a meat-serving kind, never being allowed to be killed wantonly, or where there was no use in the slaughter. Why had the poor dumb beasts been killed in this way? There was a world of inquiry in their looks as they stood perfectly still, and saw the King pass.

141But Onrai heeded them not. He hurried on past the great square and up the broad avenue to the Temple, where the head priest was awaiting him, and as the King drew up, the priest approached him, saying, “You have come, oh King. Throughout the night I have prayed for you and those with you. You are safe, God be praised,” and taking Onrai by the hand he led him into the Temple.

“It was your prayers then which brought us to shelter before the storm overtook us,” said the King. “But tell me, you who know all of the sacred writings, what has caused this death-dealing and destroying storm. I can only believe that our people are sinning. Tell me, do you not think this so?”

“I have made research, knowing that both you, King, and the people would want to know the cause of the storm, and I too have wished to learn the reason. I find among the sacred writings words admonishing us to do right at all times and if laws were broken and the inhabitants of this great Land of On treated lightly, the commands laid down for their good and prosperity, they would be made to suffer in such ways as God would devise. I also find that God will give warning to the good of coming events. I do not know what to think, but I hardly believe that our good people are sinning.”

“Are there any motives which might make us break the laws?” asked the King.

“I think not,” answered the priest, and as he said this, he looked at the King and was surprised to see his face so pale. “No, it must be a warning,” he continued.

142“But what unusual event can come to our country?” asked Onrai.

“Was not the storm of last night an unusual event?” asked the priest, “and should this not be a sufficient warning to us to guard against all such? I believe that naught else can come to the Land of On but the wars of the elements, and if these visit us, it is God’s will and they purpose some good.”

“If it be God’s will, he must have some object in it,” said Onrai. “But tell me, priest, did the Kings of On ever marry?”

The question almost staggered the priest and he started back for the moment unable to answer. But controlling himself he came forward and looked Onrai straight in the eye, asking sternly, “Why do you ask? Do you not know that it means death to the King who even contemplates marriage? Were not the sacred teachings imparted to you when you were yet young, and have these not been told you many times since and expanded on, and explained? And does not the law say that the King shall not marry? I cannot understand you, King.”

Onrai’s face was puzzled as he looked at the priest as he spoke.

“I hardly understand myself,” said the King. “I have indeed read the great laws and have heard them read since my earliest childhood, and I know that the King cannot marry and that there are great and good reasons given for his not marrying. But God forgive me if I have thought for one moment that this law was unjust. I am King, chosen by the people because of my physical attainments and stature. I am strong, powerful; through my veins courses the 143blood of endless generations of perfect manhood; every nerve, every tissue, every muscle tingles with life; I have been trained until my naturally healthy sinews are as hard as the black metal which we dig out of the foothill of the cliffs; my whole being vibrates with health and vitality and for these reasons I am chosen King and denied a wife; I of all men who should be granted a mate,” and as he ceased speaking he strode up and down the Temple, his powerful form shaking like an aspen; his breath came quick and short; his hands opened and shut nervously.

The priest looked at him in wonderment and seemed at a loss to know how to answer him. But he must say something to this rash man, this ruler of the people, who was supposed to be pure, to be sinless. If others should hear him talk in this mad way the consequences might be fearful. He stepped in front of the King as he came near him and said, “Onrai, are you not mad? Do you not realize the consequences of such ravings? Do you not know that death awaits you if you give up to such sinful thoughts? Oh, Onrai, King, brother, great and good, strong and beautiful, drive these fearful thoughts from your mind; smother these emotions, which can only lead you to destruction. Remember that endless line of ancestors of whom you speak, and let not an act of yours disgrace their memory or make sorrowful the people who chose you for their King. Tell me, oh my brother, what it is which has wrought this great change in you,” and then, seeming to remember the strangers, he clutched Onrai’s arm nervously and said, “Tell me, is it they?”

“Of whom do you speak,” asked the King.

“Of the strangers,” answered the priest.

144“Why should you suspicion our guests,” asked Onrai. “Is it just to them, who for the time may expect only the kindest treatment from us? I do not like this,” but as he spoke, his heart smote him for being the first to suspicion the good motives of the strangers.

“Forgive me, King,” said the priest. “I had but your interest at heart and thought only of you when I spoke; but I could not suspicion you of fostering such thoughts unless encouraged by some one. And I could not suspicion any of our people, for they have too great a reverence for our holy laws to ever speak on such subjects. Then, who could I think of but they of the fair skin? But I was wrong, forgive me.”

“No, it has been nature itself, this strong vital power which permeates my being, which has prompted the thoughts. I cannot be held responsible for these thoughts, but only for nurturing them, and allowing them to influence me in doing wrong. It has not reached this point yet and it never shall. If I am weak in the body I am strong here,” and Onrai tapped his forehead.

“Now, you are the Onrai I have known since a boy,” said the priest. “But Onrai be careful; guard against temptation, as our sacred writing commands us to do. Come to me and tell me if you are again tempted; I have never had such thoughts as yours and I can better counsel and advise you. And if others should hear you vent such thoughts, the whole populace would soon know it and the end would be death. Let me again admonish you, my King, to fortify your mind against such temptations. If certain ones create such 145thoughts, go not near them,” and the priest, with this advice, left him.

Onrai walked down the main hall of the Temple, his mind trying to throw from it the gloomy thoughts which the priest’s negative assertion had raised. So the hope, which sprung into being when he saw Enola’s innocence, could not be cherished; the fulfilment of it could never be realized. The thought was maddening and Onrai groaned aloud in his fearful agony.

“God help me in this struggle,” he cried, “is it sin, can it be sin, this longing to be like other men, be allowed to take unto myself a wife? I cannot believe that it is, but the law says “No,” and I, with every impulse fighting against it, must comply.”

He now left the Temple and walked down the broad avenue. Word had gone forth that the King would speak at the large open square, and crowds who had seen the King come to the city had now, with their friends gathered and were waiting with those same wonder-depicting countenances, for the King to come and tell them why the strange storm had come and ruined the Land of On. Walking straight to the fountain, Onrai mounted the dais and glancing about him for a moment at the hushed, bewildered Onians, said:

“It has pleased our great God to give us a warning; this warning admonishes us to be careful, watchful and diligent. If any among you have sinned or are sinning, this fearful storm tells you to turn from the evil of your ways; if you have intentions of sinning, it speaks to you a warning, but I cannot believe that my people are sinning. I look among you to-day and see not one guilty face. You are bewildered, in wonderment, 146but this is not guilt. It can be a warning to us of some disastrous event which may visit our fair land. It may be that it will all be revealed to us later, but let us not be worried, but obeying the laws, go on in our happy way. The fearful storm has caused no loss of life of our people, and we may believe from this that God was not angry with us. Let us be watchful of coming harm, but let us not live in dread, for such will destroy happiness. The storm has left a vast track of ruin behind it, but ruin easily righted. We must, for the time, give up all other occupations and repair the damage done by the storm. Only let the food be furnished and the city kept clean. All traces of the devastation will soon be gone and we will forget, or it will only be a memory to us after a short time. Our guests from the far-away planet escaped injury, all but one and that one was the fair and sweet Enola, who is so much loved by you all. But I left her better and she will recover, for God would not take one of our guests, and leave our people unharmed.”

As if in denial of Onrai’s words, a messenger stepped to the edge of the crowd and waved a piece of papyrus over his head. Onrai saw him at once and raising his hand, said:

“A courier has just arrived from the villa in which lies the fair Enola. I must hasten to this villa as these people are our guests, and I should be with them. Again I pray of you, be watchful, and keeping from sin, be happy and contented as in the past.”

Onrai ceased speaking and descending to the pavement took the message from the courier. It read as follows:

“Enola lives, but her reason is dead.” His face 147turned ashen and he jumped on to the zebra held for him by an attendant, and dashed off madly down the avenue. The populace watched his retreating figure in still greater wonderment, and the attendants who followed him were soon left far in the rear, as the zebra which he rode was fleeter than any other in the land. On the King rode, each moment urging the zebra to greater efforts, each moment shortening the distance between Enola and himself. The avenue had been almost cleared of fallen trees by the large body of men who had immediately gone to work after the storm, and Onrai hardly met with any obstructions in his mad rush. It was growing dark now and Onrai had ridden nearly fifty miles that day, but he showed no fatigue as he bent well over the zebra’s shoulders and urged it on. He had but one thought, an excruciating one: “Enola was mad.” The agony of that thought. She would no longer look at him with those beautiful eyes or speak to him in those charming accents, or smile on him with those lips which seemed only made to kiss. Mad, mad, mad; the word rang in his ears, the zebra’s hoofs seemed to pound it out of the flinty pavement, the birds in the air were screeching it; everything seemed to be telling him the fearful story. On, on he rushed with unabated speed, the zebra reeking with sweat and panting as if it would drop each moment, its eyes bulged and glaring, until, pulling up in front of the villa, and Onrai jumping from its back, the beast falls dead.

148

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162

Yes, Gip, the great, noble, loyal Gip, had saved Enola. When that great cry of hers had broken out, it had floated through the arches and out to the open stables where Gip had been placed. He had just been raised to his feet preparatory to having his wounds rebandaged, and as the agonized cry reached him, he raised his head and listened, and when the second cry came he pushed the attendants aside who tried to stop him and limping and almost falling he started for the open arches through which the sound came. Such loyalty, such love for a mistress had never before been displayed by the domestic animals of On and Onrai and the attendants looked with astonishment at Gip as he pushed his great head through the arch of Enola’s apartment, and gave that peculiar cry.

Enola a moment before had seemed very close to death’s door, her breath being scarcely perceptible and no movement of the body showing any signs of life. But she had awakened and in her delirium had called on that friend who had shared the danger with her and had suffered in trying to protect her. Her movement had been so quick when she had seen Gip, that those 169about her had not time to stop her before she had fallen on the floor clasping the great trunk of the animal. But it was well perhaps that they did not, for any hindrance or objection on their part in allowing her to go to that protector, the only one she had recognized, might have resulted seriously to her reason, that reason which was already darkened, but which now gave a glimpse of light.

All looked at her in astonishment as she caressed the elephant, throwing her arms about the great trunk, patting him and calling him by endearing names in the meantime. She now noticed the bandages about his head and said.

“Oh, my poor Gip, and you were wounded? Ah, yes, I remember now, that great, cruel log struck you,” and as she said this she almost fell backwards in her weakness, but Mr. Graham caught her and attempted to bear her to the couch, but she clutched Gip’s trunk and cried so pitifully not to be taken from him, that Mr. Bruce stepped forward and said:

“It will not hurt her and it may do her an inestimable amount of good. Listen, she already remembers a few of the instances of the storm and mad ride.”

“It was terrible, was it not, Gip?” Enola went on, “and you tried so hard to keep me from danger; but it blew so furiously and the air was so thick with stones and sand and sticks, and you were blinded, dear friend. But you are safe now, all but that poor head which the cruel log struck. But where are we now, Gip? The storm is over and we are together; but where?” and Enola looked about her with eyes which began to show some signs of returning reason.

“Ah, I see, they have found us and have taken us 170back to the Temple; and what are these?” and she looked at her bandaged hands and arms. “And my face, too! Oh, they hurt so,” and the poor girl seeming for the first time to realize her suffering, fell back on the floor.

“Come, Enola,” said Mr. Graham, “you are tired and weak, and must lie down. Gip shall stay near you,” he continued, as Enola again turned toward the elephant.

“Oh, uncle, I am so tired,” said Enola, as Mr. Graham laid her on the couch.

“Thank Heaven!” almost whispered Harry, “her reason is not destroyed.”

“No,” said Mr. Bruce, as he gave her a quieting powder, “Gip has indeed saved her life and her reason, too, for the sight of him has brought from out of the chaos the scenes of last night, and these have brought in their train other thoughts, until reason itself has been restored.”

This news was received with tears of joy. All fears were now allayed regarding Enola, but there were the greater ones awaiting them on the morrow. What was to be the result of the conference of the King with the people to-morrow? Onrai had assured them that it would be all right, that they would abide by his decision in the matter; but was there not a possibility of these people, who were experiencing for the first time the fears which superstition brought out, being swayed by these rather than by the King? Such thoughts had occurred to Mr. Bruce, but he had said nothing of his fears to the others, not wishing to worry them unnecessarily. Indeed, the thought had come to Mr. Bruce to suggest their immediate departure 171from On, but Enola’s condition forbade this, and again, they could not possibly reach the cave before morning, and if this intended escape was once discovered, they would be stopped and dealt with roughly to say the least.

The news of the coming conference had not been imparted to Mrs. Graham and Nellie and they, happy at Enola’s assured recovery, were quietly dozing in their chairs, the events of the past twenty-four hours having tired them greatly. The watches were now set for the night and the men had retired with the exception of Onrai, who went into the garden and strolled up and down, his arms hanging listlessly by his side and his head bowed as if in deep thought. Was he, too, thinking of that coming conference and of the possibility of the men refusing to heed him, and following their own blind reasoning? Whatever his thoughts were he was completely wrapped up in them and hardly heeded the approaching morn. The eastern heavens grew lighter and lighter, but still Onrai paced the drive, his head bending low and his eyes cast on the ground. The whistle of a bird seemed to rouse him at last, and raising his head and noticing the rosy tints of morn lighting the east, he shook himself and said:

“The battle is fought and I now feel stronger; but it has been cruelly hard.”

A song sung by a thousand male voices, now arose on the morning air, and Onrai, turning toward the lake, exclaimed:

“Oh, I had forgotten. I must meet the people this morning at the lake,” and he started off in that direction.

172Mr. Bruce came running from the villa, and hurrying up to the retreating figure of Onrai, said:

“Onrai, you are about to go to your people. They have a grievance with us. Is it not best that we also accompany you, and plead our own defense?”

“No,” said Onrai, “I can better do this myself. I am dealing with a new phase in their character to-day, and I do not know just how I will handle them, but, at any rate, it is best that I should go alone.”

“I would ask one favor of you before you leave,” said Mr. Bruce. “We came to your land uninvited, and it is not right that we should create any disturbance, or destroy the peace of mind which your people have always known. If they demand our departure, and you feel that their demand is just, and this decree is irrevocable, do not hesitate to tell us, and we will leave immediately, although it would grieve us greatly to be compelled to do so, just when we have fully experienced the full delights of your beautiful country, and tasted the pleasures of your hospitality. We cannot understand why they have learned to fear us, but we do not question their motive, in wishing us to leave, if this be so.”

“Fear not,” said Onrai, “Some question of difference has come up probably, which has led them to fear that if you should remain here long, established customs might be changed. By talking on this subject and expatiating on it, it has assumed great proportions, and has seemed of greater importance because of the mystery which surrounds you. They have never been able to understand how you came to our country. They found you on the side of the cliff one morning in the heart of our wild beast range; you 173had been there overnight, and had been unmolested by the ferocious beasts. This alone made them look on you with awe, and they have never forgotten it. As I have said, it is superstitious fear, which is now urging them on, and we will have to first destroy this.”

“I hope that you may be able to do this completely,” said Mr. Bruce, “for we wish to be friends with your people, and remain a long time with them.”

“I would have it so,” answered Onrai, as he turned and again started for the shore. “I can understand now, I think, why these people have turned on their guests. In some way they have learned of my love for Enola, and a fear has taken possession of them that I would give myself up to the fascinations of this fair woman. And they have attributed a supernatural power to her, for they could not believe that any other could make me so far forget my laws and people as to love; and I do not know just how I am going to deny their charges and still ask them to allow the strangers to remain with us. This they must do, however, for I would have them with us until they have fully learned our customs and ways. They will not fully know these until they have seen the ceremony of the Day of Resis. And, am I still weak? May be so; but I cannot now see Enola leave me. I will be strong, I will bury the love, which, if mentioned, will ruin my whole life and that life to come. But I must see her; I must have her with me yet awhile. Ah, I am approaching the appointed place. Now for the struggle.”

The party had seen him coming and were now drawn up before a large rock, which was intended for 174a platform, from which Onrai was to speak; Onrai approached and took his stand on the rock; the men stood in a semicircle about him, their heads uncovered and as Onrai took his position on the rock they bent their bodies respectfully, and then stood waiting for him to speak.

“My people,” he commenced, “you came to me last night with a strange complaint. For a short time we have had in the Land of On a number of strange people, the first which has ever visited our world since we can remember. If at any previous time such visitors came to the Land of On, we know not, for the events of the past ages are not made known to us. But we are concerned only with these strangers from a distant planet. When we stop to consider, we cannot wonder that these enlightened people, of another world, seeing our world as we see theirs, should wish to visit it and learn, if here was a race of people like unto themselves. We cannot fully understand, perhaps, the curiosity which should prompt this desire, for we have been taught to be contented with the good land which God has given us and not to seek anything which we have not here given us. We have certain laws to follow, and these laws are life and death. But it is not so with the people who are now here as our guests; they have certain political and moral laws, as they call them, which they must adhere to, but they have no laws restricting their research into the unknown. They may invent new contrivances for making their labor easier, they may advance new theories on great subjects, even their religion, not being altogether as ours is, but a number of different beliefs, these beliefs being subdivided, each advancing 175different theories, which in the end are widely varying. And they are allowed to study the heavens and learn the different stars and to name them; and they learned that there was a world similar to theirs and they determined to visit it, and immediately devised new means to do so; and they came and found that another race was here, a race much like themselves in many respects but different in others, principally in physique; but they worshiped the same God, the great God, and this makes them brothers, and now you would destroy them, or send them back to that world from whence they came, even before they have fully learned the world or people which they traveled so far to find. You have an imaginary complaint to make against them; it cannot be a genuine complaint for I have been with them almost constantly since they came to our land and I know that they are as pure in heart and deed as any among us. Accept your King’s word for this, for he knows of what he speaks. I have done.”

The party of men had stood perfectly still during this speech of the King, but it would be impossible to tell from their mobile features whether they were being convinced or not. They stood stolidly silent, not a muscle moving, leaning against their zebras. They made a grand sight, these thousand men in their beautiful tunics, holding their bright helmets. A body of men which would make the armies of the civilized world look like pigmies and which would make the eyes of a general open wide with admiration. But that stolidity; not one among them betrayed an emotion in the face. As Onrai finished they did not 176even change the position which they had held while he was speaking.

Onrai now stepped to one side of the rock and the leader, who had spoken the night before, came forward and mounting the rock, bowed to Onrai and then proceeded with his explanation.

“Oh, King, I was chosen by the people, who sent us here to make the charge against the strangers last night, but you ordered us away, and we have always learned to obey our King before all else, so we have waited until this morning. The decision reached by the people was caused by a report which was brought to the city by one, who has been a member of your expedition since you left the city and was for some time before attached to the woman Enola before she left the Temple. She was alarmed by certain things which transpired, and no longer being able to keep them to herself, rode to the city yesterday morning, arriving even before you did, oh, King. She tells of the King of On, being in the company of the woman Enola most of the time, and that certain expressions passed between the King and this woman, which could mean but one thing; the King had become infatuated with the woman. This news could hardly be credited and would not have been believed probably, if one of our men, who was also in the party, had not rushed madly into the city yesterday, giving out that the King was mad; that he had stood on the terrace of the villa, occupied by Onrai and his party on the night of the storm, and had heard the King accuse the woman Enola of having bewitched him; of her having known before the laws and customs of the people of On, even before she had come here; but notwithstanding 177this she had thrown a spell over him, the King. The King told her that she had been balked in her machinations before it was forever too late, by the warning of God. This warning was the storm. The man had not stopped to listen longer; the storm causing him to seek shelter. The people had seen the King come to the city, where he should be in the time of great trouble, but that word had come from the woman Enola and he had forgotten his people and had rushed off quickly, even killing the zebra which he had ridden. This latter, we learned afterwards. The people love their King, oh, Onrai; they feel that he has not sinned but that he is in the meshes of one who would ruin him, and they have decided that the woman and her party should die, and we have come to fulfill this mission.” And the man, as if this declaration ended the matter, stepped down from the rock and commanded the men to don their helmets and again mount.

“Hold,” cried Onrai, “what would you do? Consider well the step which you would take. Have you forgotten that these people are our guests and as such demand our protection? The stories which you bring are true, but they are the results of my own blindness and are not due to any supernatural influence, which Enola has had over me. She is innocent and even now lies at the point of death, and, will you not at least wait and see if her injuries are fatal? Oh, heed your King and do not this thing which hurts him. Let them be escorted to the place where they were found, and let them from there return to their own world. Do not kill them,” and Onrai wrung his hands in despair.

178The only answer the leader made him was, “We must save our King, for we love him and this is the only way,” and he ordered the men to march. Onrai jumped from the rock and ran like a deer ahead of the riders, and reaching the villa, met Mr. Bruce, Mr. Graham and Harry on the terrace awaiting his return. The hurrying figure of Onrai coming toward them told them that something was wrong, and stepping up quickly toward him, Mr. Bruce asked, “What is it?”

“It is settled,” said Onrai; “they are coming to kill you; I tried to dissuade them, but it was useless. Rush to the rear and take zebras and make all possible speed to where you were found. I will try to keep them back for a while; it will mean my death, but that matters little.”

The three men turned white, but did not move.

“But what of Enola?” asked Mr. Bruce.

“She must be taken too,” said Onrai, “but it is too late.”

The riders had now reached the terrace and dismounting, a number of them stepped forward and laid hands on the strangers. Others prepared to enter the villa, for the women. Onrai stood with bowed head, overcome with emotion. This then was to be the miserable end of the expedition.

179

The noise of the zebra galloping madly over the avenue, had so surprised the men that for the moment all else had been forgotten, and those holding the strangers had let go their hold, and stood with necks craned to catch the first glimpse of the mad rider. Mrs. Graham and Nelly had stood where their guard had stopped when the first sound of the zebra’s hoofs had reached them. They had been so surprised by the entrance of the men into the sick chamber, and by their command to follow them, that they could not at first realize what the men meant. But when one of them attempted to raise Enola from the couch, Mrs. Graham rushed forward, and would have tried to stop him, but for the retaining hand of the other man.

“What does this mean?” indignantly asked Mrs. Graham.

But the man did not understand English, and simply stared at Mrs. Graham.

But now that Enola had been secured, Mrs. Graham and Nellie were made to understand that they were to go with the man. They then began to realize that 186something was wrong, and that this was being done with the knowledge of those outside. They walked to the terrace, and when they saw the men holding their male companions also, they knew that they were being made captives for some reason or other. They turned pale, and thoughts of dungeon cells and murder came into their minds, which were probably not far from the truth, if they but knew it. But the men stopped as Sedai rode furiously up, flourishing a piece of parchment in his hand. Onrai stepped forward hurriedly, and taking the parchment into his hand, read the hieroglyphics inscribed on it. His face at first wore a puzzled look, then became brighter, and finally broke into a smile, as he handed the parchment to the leader, saying:

“There, man, read that to your followers. It is from the high priest, one whose authority you cannot question. Read also how fickle are the people whom you represent, for they now order you to return without fulfilling your mission,” and saying this, he walked over to where the man stood who was holding Enola, and taking her in his arms, carried her into the apartment, and laying her on the couch, kissed the fair cheek, saying:

“Mine, all mine, and they were trying to take you from me. Oh, God, I thank thee.”

Outside the leader had taken the parchment, and, first reading it to himself, turned to the men who were watching him closely and expectantly, and said:

“This message, as you have heard the King say, is from the high priest, and it relieves us from the painful duty of disobeying our King’s orders, listen:

“‘I, the high priest of On, who has access to the 187most sacred laws, have, knowing that a matter of great moment depended on the proper reading of these laws, perused them carefully, studying each character as it is written, and have made this discovery: in those laws which govern the King and his conduct, I find the law which says he shall not marry; this has always been read that the King shall not marry. But it does not end here. In believing that our race is the only one on earth, and that we could never be visited by other people, we have read but the first part of this law which says, the King shall not love or marry. But the whole reading of the law is this: ‘The King shall not take unto himself a wife chosen from among his own people.’ The great law-giver of our land undoubtedly foresaw that at some future day, people of another race would visit us, and although he has virtually given no consent to the King’s marrying one of his people, he has, by writing the law in this way, namely: ‘The King shall not marry one of his own people,’ made it possible for him to marry one of his own race, if he so choses, providing, of course, if such a woman comes to the land of On. Therefore I, the high priest of the Land of On, do hereby declare that Onrai, the King of On, has full and proper rights to marry the woman, Enola, who is of another race, and that the men who have been sent to kill the strangers, because of Onrai loving one of their women, are on an unlawful mission, and must be recalled.’”

As the man finished his reading, he turned to face those whom he and his men had been sent to take and kill, and said:

“I came to you with orders from the people to make you prisoners, and to take you to a certain place and 188kill you. We had learned to respect you, and it was hard for us to believe that you were guilty of that of which you were accused. But all signs seemed to be against you, and we were compelled at last to believe that you were guilty. But we have just learned from the words of the high priest, that the King’s love was sinless, and if there be no sin in his loving, Enola must be sinless. If we have shaken your confidence in us, we know not how to regain it. All we can do is to assure you that if we have doubted you and have proven ourselves traitors to the confidence you have placed in us, we will now strive all the harder to make your stay among us a happy sojourn. We crave you to pardon us, and believe it was the respect to our laws, as we knew them, which made us act as we did.”

The man waited for a moment after he had finished speaking, as if expecting a reply from one of the strangers, but none of them understood the language well enough to make themselves understood as they would wish. Onrai came forward, however, after telling him that they wished him to express to his people that they freely forgave their mistaken understanding of their mission to their country, and further intention of killing them. Onrai turned and interpreted this to the men, who then mounted their zebras and departed.

The party again entered the sick chamber and looked at Enola. She had awakened from the stupor or sleep into which she had fallen after taking the powder, and as they entered she was looking wistfully at the great open arch, which had framed the bandaged head of Gip the night before. She looked up as the party came in and tried to smile, but the effort was lost, the bandages 189covering her face so completely, that they hid all expression.

“Was I so badly wounded then?” she asked, as she half raised her head and looked at them.

“Yes, dear,” said Mrs. Graham, who had hardly yet got over the scare which the recent event had given her. “But you are going to get well now and we will be so happy.”

“Yes, Enola,” said Onrai, as he stepped up and took the poor bruised hand, “happiness has been unknown to us since you were wounded, but we know now that you will get well, and our happiness has returned,” and he raised her hand to his lips.

One week had now passed and Enola had almost entirely recovered. Her fever had lasted only a day or two and with Mr. Bruce’s prescriptions and treatment, and Mrs. Graham’s and Nellie’s gentle care she mended rapidly. Her wounds, too, had healed so quickly, the bandages had been discontinued and altogether Enola was nearly in as good a condition as before her fateful ride.

“Why, Enola,” said Mr. Graham, “you look as bright and happy as ever, this beautiful morning, and I prescribe a good long walk for you in the garden.”

“And I feel quite as well as usual, Uncle,” answered Enola. “My arms and limbs are a little stiff yet, but 190outside of that I am all right and will gladly accept your invitation. Ah, the morning is beautiful, glorious,” she continued, as they stepped to the terrace. “Uncle, have you noticed that the sun seems to be brighter, the air purer, that all verdure is greener, that the waters of the lake and river bluer, that the birds’ notes clearer and their plumage gayer, that all nature seems brighter and happier here than in the civilized world?”

“Ah, that is quite a speech, Enola,” answered Mr. Graham, smiling; “but seriously, I have noticed all this many times, and I have long ago ceased wondering at the happiness and contentment of the people, for they could hardly be aught else with such environments.”

“Yes, they are truly a happy lot,” said Enola, “yet how human. For centuries, more than likely, their ancestors had never known such words as fear and superstition and they themselves could hardly have defined the meaning of these words, yet one little word set them wondering and just a word more and a little act on the part of their King made them slaves to superstitious fears.”

“Yes, that is so,” said Mr. Graham, “I am very much afraid we are all alike after all.”

“No, not all alike,” said Enola, “for we, with our advanced notions on such matters could never believe as did these people for a short time.”

“May be not,” said Mr. Graham, “but we must take into consideration that these people have always been led to believe that they were the only people on earth, and have never been told of other people on other planets, so our advent among them was a great 191surprise in the first place and they looked on us with awe, mingled with fear; and Onrai’s strange actions and the storm simply ‘capped the climax.’”

“We had rather a narrow escape, don’t you think?” asked Enola.

“Yes,” answered Mr. Graham, “too narrow for comfort; but I think we stand on a better footing with these people since, and that for this reason the occurrence should be looked upon as being a decidedly lucky one for us.”

“That is very true,” said Enola, “but look, Gip has seen us and is coming to meet us.”

Across the lawn strode the great monstrous beast, his limp nearly gone, but his head still bandaged. This great elephant stood fully twenty feet high and as he stalked under the trees his back touched the lower boughs. He had been given the freedom of the garden from the first night of his removal from the scene of the accident to the villa, and he had taken up his position beneath the arch which opened into Enola’s apartment, and here he had remained, only going to his stall for a few moments’ rest; he knowing that if he lay down beneath the window, he could not again rise. Such love for a mistress had never been displayed before, according to Onrai, and his people could not understand it; but it was clear enough to them that the elephant was attached to Enola, and this was quite enough to let him have his own way.

Quickly he passed over the smooth lawn until he had reached them, when he affectionately stuck his great trunk into Enola’s face. Perhaps this was not a very pleasant way of having him show his love, but 192it was the only way he knew of, and Enola seemed to enjoy it.

“Good Gip,” she said, “and could you not see me in my room? I saw you poke your big head in the arch and pull it out again and look about. You are a dear, good fellow, Gip, and you can come right along and walk with us.”

And he did. Back and forth on the lawn the three walked, the great elephant keeping close to Enola’s side, occasionally thrusting his trunk over her shoulder, giving out that little squeak, as if to let her know that he was still with her. And his great moving hulk shook the ground at every step, making Mr. Graham look around now and then with apprehension. But Gip paid no attention to him, simply looking at Enola and trying to make her look at him.

The day before Onrai had gone to the city to attend to any matters which might need his attention. He was to return to-day, and on the morrow they were again going to take up the journey to the field of diamonds, which had been so unexpectedly interrupted by the storm. Mr. Graham and Enola had now walked to the edge of the garden, and were standing looking down the beautiful roadway, when far away, where the perspective came to a point, could be seen a small black spot. At first it looked like a pedestrian, then like a zebra, and finally the form of zebra and rider were made out. It was Onrai returning, and as impatient as on the night when the message had reached him of Enola’s serious illness. Gip pricked up his ears, and looking down the road, saw the rider approaching; then kneeling, he placed his trunk for Enola to step on, as of old. She divined his intention 193and placing her foot on his trunk, he raised her to his back and started off down the avenue, she sitting Turkish fashion on the silk covering which was always worn by the white elephant.

Onrai was now near enough to distinguish her form, and seeing her approach he urged his zebra into a still faster gallop and in a moment he and Enola had met, and Gip, turning, strode along beside the zebra. Far above Onrai Enola sat, her face almost hidden by the huge figure of the elephant, but Onrai was happy in the thought that he was near her. That was enough for him at least.

“You came to meet me, then?” asked he.

“No, I think it was Gip, who came to meet you,” answered Enola, smiling, “I simply accompanied him.”

Onrai laughed as he said, “Well, you are here and that is enough. You are looking entirely well this morning; are you feeling so?”

“Perfectly so,” answered Enola, “and ready and waiting to again take up the journey.”

“We will start to-morrow, at break of day,” said Onrai, “and let us hope that our journey will not again be broken by such an event as the storm.”

“Yes, it was fearful,” answered Enola, “but let us not talk of gloomy things on this beautiful morning. The miserable past is gone and let us forget it. I hope your people will not again mistrust us, for this hope only will again insure us comfort and happiness.”

They had now reached the villa and Gip, placing his trunk for Enola to step on and kneeling for her, she was soon standing beside the King.

194“I thank you for having met me,” he said.

“Don’t thank me,” said Enola. “Thank Gip.” Then she tripped lightly up the terrace stairs.

“She seems to have lost all seriousness since her recovery,” said Onrai to himself, as he followed Enola into the villa, “but this may be joyousness over that recovery. But she will have to be serious when the time comes, for my people will demand it.”

Enola had gone into her own apartment, where she found Nellie awaiting her.

“Has Onrai said anything to you yet?” asked Nellie.

“About what?” asked Enola.

“About his intended marriage,” said Nellie, and she tried to smile, but could not, the whole matter seemed such a farce.

“About his marriage? why he has not mentioned it to me,” said Enola.

“It is strange he should not have spoken to you about it,” said Nellie, “for it concerns you quite as much as himself.”

“In what way?” asked Enola. “I cannot possibly see how I am concerned in his marriage.” But as she spoke she remembered the conversation of the night of the storm and of his accusation. For he had told her then that a King was not allowed to marry, how was this then, that he was going to break the law.

“Tell me, Nellie,” said she.

“I can hardly bring myself to do so,” said Nellie. “We told you that we had trouble with the people when you were sick, which nearly ended in our massacre, but we did not tell you all concerning that trouble. You are strong enough now and can hear it. 195They accused you of bewitching the King, when you knew he was forbidden by the laws to either love or marry. They said that the storm had come to them as a warning, and was God’s wrath on them for harboring us, and they were going to kill us. But the high priest learned that the King could marry you if he so desired, and so we were pardoned, and now it is the King’s intention and the people’s desire that you should marry him. But I cannot understand why he has not spoken to you about it. Oh, Enola, can you marry this barbarous king?”

“Don’t ask me, now, Nellie, I cannot answer—I cannot understand.” And Enola drew her hand across her eyes as if to break the spell.

The following morning opened bright and beautiful; all rose early, and after a light breakfast again took up the journey. Gip had sufficiently recovered to be allowed to go, and as it was intended that for the first few days’ the marches were to be short in order not to fatigue Enola, it was thought best for her to ride in the large howdah on Gip’s back, for the motion would be less and the position more comfortable than it would be on the back of a zebra. So Gip was happy in carrying the precious burden, and strode out at the head of the large cavalcade as proud as any of them, with scarcely any sign of lameness left. Onrai had also mounted an elephant so as to be on a level with 196Enola, for the idea of trying to keep up a conversation when he was riding some feet below her, was entirely out of the question.

Harry preferred his zebra, notwithstanding this left the field entirely open to Onrai. Still, he thought it might as well be thus, for Enola might look on his riding near her as an intrusion, and this would hurt his cause far more than it would help it.

Mrs. Graham and Nellie were both on elephants this morning, Mrs. Graham being stretched out in a half reclining position, enjoying to the fullest the comforts of the huge howdah and easy motion of the elephant. Mr. Bruce, Mr. Graham and Harry rode well on ahead of the rest of the party, and Sedai was directly in their rear. The story of his hard ride from the city, when bringing the message from the high priest, he had kept silent on for a long time, but Mr. Bruce finally prevailed upon him to tell how he had been chosen as a courier. His story was substantially this:

“I was standing just before the terrace when I saw the body of men come up. I heard them make the demand and knew that they would make trouble. I heard one of the number say that it was because of Enola having made the King sin by wishing to marry her, she knowing that the King could not marry. I then remembered having heard one of the men, whom I had talked with in the city, say that the law did not forbid the King marrying a woman of another country. I heard Onrai tell them to wait until morning. I then determined to ride to the city and look up the man who had made this remark. After the men had withdrawn, I stole to the stable, and jumping on my 197zebra started for the city. I rode hard and it was still night when I reached there. I found the man after considerable trouble and he told me that that was his opinion only, but that the people had decided that the King could not marry, and he must believe this as did they. He told me to go to the high priest. While on my way to the Temple some of the populace saw me, and fearing that I had broken away from those who had been sent to kill our party, they pursued and overtook me at the base of the terrace steps which led to the Temple. I fought hard but they overpowered me and bore me into the Temple. The high priest came forward and asked me how it was that I was not with my friends. I told him as well as I could, for I knew little of the language, that there was a doubt regarding the law governing the King’s marriage; that I had been sent to him with the request that he examine carefully this law and give me his decision and let me bear it to the King. The high priest left us for a few moments and then came back and handing me a piece of parchment, commanded the people to leave me go, and bade me ride with all speed to the King and my friends.

“The priest was very much agitated as he said this to me, and kept urging me to use all speed. I rushed down the steps and jumped on one of the zebras of the natives, mine being winded, and never stopped until I had reached the villa.”

This was the story Sedai told in his quiet and unassuming way and he never seemed to realize that he had, by his quick forethought, put into immediate action, saved the lives of his friends. And Sedai had ever since this held a new place in the hearts of the 198party and Onrai himself seemed to look on the Abyssinian as one who had done him a personal act of kindness which could never be repaid. He was a hero, was Sedai, and it was decided by the party that although he might never again have an opportunity to help them in a like way, still it was good always to have him with them, and upon their telling him this he said that he would never again leave them; not even for a day. And so he was one of the party to-day, his sturdy figure riding the zebra like a native.

The journey would occupy some ten days yet and it was decided to travel early in the morning and in the cool of the evening; spending the warm part of the day in one of the villas en route, as they had on previous marches. The storm’s track could be seen very plainly from the avenue and a large body of men were still employed cleaning away the debris. A remarkable thing about the terrible storm was that it had not killed a single human being. Some had been very badly injured, but these had all recovered or were recovering, so that not one death could be laid to the storm; many animals had been killed and it was expected that many of the wild animals in the hunting reservation had also been killed, but this had not yet been ascertained, as none had gotten as far as the northwestern part of the country, where the storm was supposed to have started.

It would remain with Onrai and his party to ascertain this.

All was life and happiness this beautiful morning and all thoughts of the storm had been relegated to the past. On their right stretched the lake, its clear waters stretching far to the north; on the left were 199the farms and pastures, through which the storm had ploughed its way; on ahead of them, as far as the eye could reach, stretched out the shaded avenue; way off to the northwest could just be seen in the blue distance, hardly perceptible, the faces of the cliffs, and at the base of these cliffs was their destination, and there too were the points of interest, which the party were to see before their return.

“The journey for the next few days will be uneventful enough, will it not?” said Mr. Graham, as he pulled up for a moment alongside of Onrai’s elephant.

“Yes, we will have little to break the monotony between here and the field of brilliants, but the country is beautiful and I think you will find it all interesting,” said Onrai.

“It is all interesting to me,” said Mr. Graham, “but I wished to know if there was anything of special interest, such as mines and quarries.”

“No, nothing of that kind,” said Onrai, “but wait a minute; there is a deserted mine or something, which has never been explored by any of my people, since I can remember, and I cannot tell whether it be a mine or well or natural hole in the ground. It is about the width of the avenue and goes down, down, down, far below where the eyes can reach. I have only looked down this dark hole when I have been passing and know positively nothing about it, but if you would like to do so, we will halt there to-morrow and go down with ropes and explore it as far as we can. A villa stands near in which the ladies can wait for us.”

200“I should like to see what this curious place is,” said Mr. Graham.

“Well, then, it is settled, we will explore it to-morrow,” said Onrai.

Mr. Graham again rode up alongside of Mr. Bruce, and telling him of the hole in the ground, had his interest aroused at once. All along the track of the storm many men were at work, but for some time past none had been seen.

“It is strange, is it not?” asked Harry of Mr. Bruce.

“Yes, decidedly so,” said Mr. Bruce.

“But, look, what is that in the distance?”

“It looks like a body of men,” answered Harry.

“Perhaps they have congregated there for some special work.”

No further comment was made about these men. They could now be plainly seen standing in a circle. They were not working as far as could be seen, but were standing with heads bowed as if contemplating something on the ground before them. They now saw the King and his party approaching, and one of their party hurried to the avenue and came towards the travelers.

“He seems to be excited over something,” said Mr. Graham.

“Yes, he acts differently than most other men I have seen in this country,” said Mr. Bruce.

“May be they have made a discovery.”

“Something agitates him,” said Harry, “that is sure.”

The man now came near, and seeing that it was the King and his party he stopped, and making a respectful bow, said:

201“I have come, oh, King, not knowing that you was of the party, to call attention to a strange being which we have found in the field. We know not whether it be human or not, and we would ask you to look at it and tell us how to act with it.”

“Go, we will follow,” said the King, and the party followed the man from the avenue into the field to the left.

The body of natives moved, upon seeing the King and party approaching, to one side, disclosing the object which had so interested them. The party looked and saw the body of an African negress with a child strapped to her back.

But how had it gotten here?

Yes, it was a negro mother and her babe. The body was that of a slight woman, weighing not more than one hundred pounds, and perfectly black. The babe was probably three months old, and was strapped to the back of her mother. The features of the mother were flat and broad, and showed but little intelligence. Both bodies were considerably mutilated; this being caused, very likely, by the storm; not a rag of clothing covered the bodies. Silently the native men and women stood gazing on the strange figures; they could offer no explanation on this as to how these bodies had come here or from whence they had come; they 202looked at the bodies and then at the white strangers as if to trace some likeness, but there was none, and this puzzled them all the more. Involuntarily they glanced into the heavens, as if expecting to see a new planet looming up in the midday sun from which these black bodies had fallen. That they had come from the same world which they themselves inhabited—that world which was theirs alone, they could not believe, of course.

Onrai looked at one of the guests and then at another, as if expecting some explanation from them, but they offered none; they being nearly as much in the dark as was he. But finally Onrai, stepping up to Mr. Bruce, said:

“You know so much of the heavens and of the stars, can you not tell me whence came this woman!”

“I can only offer one explanation,” answered Mr. Bruce, “and that is that the woman and child were caught up by the great storm and blown from their own country into this.”

“Ah,” said Onrai, “that explanation maybe truthful, and looking over his people he called them all closely about him and told them what Mr. Bruce had said. It seemed to satisfy them, but it raised their curiosity to a greater extent, and they crowded more closely about the bodies. The hot sun had poured down on these bodies until they were in a bad state of decomposition and our friends soon moved away, leaving the find wholly in possession of the natives.

“What shall we do with these bodies?” asked Onrai of Mr. Graham.

“I would order them burned,” said Mr. Graham.

So Onrai told some of the men to throw together a 203pile of wood and lay the bodies on it; this was soon done and the torch was then applied. As the flames shot into the air, licking the reeking flesh off the bodies, our friends again mounted and moved on.

“What do you think of this, Mr. Bruce?” asked Mr. Graham.

“I can only say what I have already said to Onrai,” answered Mr. Bruce. “The force of the storm must have blown this woman and her child over the cliff and thus far into the heart of the land.”

“Do you not think that another explanation might be made of their appearance?” asked Mr. Graham.

“There may be many explanations made,” answered Mr. Bruce, “but if this country is impregnable, how else could this woman and her child reach here?”

“I think myself that the storm has played a great part in this woman’s appearance in this part of the country, but I cannot help but think that she was this side of the cliffs before the storm,” answered Mr. Graham.

“If that be so, then these people have lived in ignorance of this tribe’s having taken up a residence in this country,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Yes,” said Mr. Graham, “but these Onians very seldom visit the northwestern part of this country, as Onrai has said, and this tribe might have found an entrance and settled in a fertile part near the cliffs, and may now be living there in total ignorance of their having entered a country which has for ages been shut in from the rest of the world?”

“This may all be so,” said Mr. Bruce, “but I would rather cling to my theory.”

“I would gladly accept your explanation,” said Mr. 204Graham, “if it were not for that part of it, which says that the woman was blown over the cliffs. Now, if this storm had started on the western side of these cliffs, the cliffs themselves would have broken the force, or destroyed it entirely before it reached this side. Therefore, I claim that the storm must have started from this side of the cliff.”

“When put in that way,” said Mr. Bruce, “you almost convince me that I have made a mistake. But whatever the way in which this woman reached this country, I believe that we will hear more of it. It would be strange indeed if we should find a race of negroes quietly villaged in this country.”

“Well, there is a possibility that we may,” said Mr. Graham.

Off to the right, in a clump of trees, is now seen a villa and the party made for it, it now being nearly midday. Once in the cool villa, and all thought of the morning adventure was forgotten. Lunch was served and then came the afternoon siesta.

Late in the afternoon they again started, intending to ride until late in the evening. The journeys in the cool of the evening were delightful. There was always a breeze coming off the lake at this time and it was very refreshing after the close, warm air of the day. Along toward evening the villa, which they had occupied on the evening of the storm, was passed. The storm had made great ravages here, tearing up immense trees by the roots and piling them one above the other. The earth was gouged out in places to a depth of twenty feet, and all along the track of the storm were immense piles of debris.

Thoughts of the storm had long since passed from 205the minds of our friends; they were interested only in the far northwest toward which they were headed, and which promised them so many surprises and adventures. This northwest was almost unknown even to the natives; they knew certain parts of it very well, such as the field of diamonds and one or two other points, which had come under their notice for some special reason. But taken as a whole very little was known of the country, and for this reason Mr. Bruce and the others expected to make some very interesting discoveries. The country had wonderful resources; every known part of it producing certain products, which made it a veritable Eldorado, and it might be expected that the northwest held resources which would astonish all, even Onrai and his people. The field of diamonds alone was enough to make this part of the country interesting to the strangers, and for this alone they had started on this journey.

The following morning the party was up and off exceptionally early, long before the sun had risen. They were only to make half a march that day, for the shaft, which Onrai had spoken of on the previous day, was to be explored. That is, men were to be lowered into it and if the bottom could be reached and openings found leading from it, then all of the men of the party were to go down and explore these. Such was the programme laid out for the day and with this prospect of new diversions the men started off with happy hearts.

Each day now was bringing them nearer to the great northwest and the cliffs were growing plainer as they advanced. The country began to assume a wilder appearance; still there were well-kept fields and numerous 206farm villas and many men at work in the fields. At another point to-day they had passed a great herd of elephants, which had been brought from the city to recuperate, the former hospital having been almost entirely destroyed by the storm. These elephants, like many others which they had passed, had followed them until driven back by the attendant.

The morning was getting pretty well-advanced and the hopes of reaching the shaft shortly were making the men keep up a constant watch on both sides of them for fear of passing it. It was partially hid in a piece of woods which bordered the lake at this point for some distance. None of the party knew the exact locality of the opening and so care had to be taken in order not to pass it.

“What do you think of this hole in the ground?” asked Mr. Graham of Mr. Bruce.

“I do not know what to think of it,” said Mr. Bruce, “but I do know that it is a very strange thing that these people should be in ignorance of its origin. It seems to me that such things would start the curiosity in these people, but I have seen very little of this article in their make-up. They did look a little bewildered yesterday when they saw the negress and child, but I will wager you a shilling they have forgotten all about it by this time. This very lack of curiosity in these people almost puts me out of patience with them.”

“It may be, though,” said Mr. Graham, smiling at Mr. Bruce’s impatience, “that it is better that they have left to us the exploring of this extinct mine or well, or whatever it is; anyway I would feel better satisfied finding something, which is not already known 207by this people. There goes one of the attendants now towards the trees; perhaps we have reached the hole.”

And they had, for the fellow, pulling aside some underbrush, disclosed a large, dark opening running straight into the ground. The wind seemed to be rushing into this hole with great force. He turned and motioned to the party and they rode toward them. All dismounting, ropes were procured and tied to the trunks of the trees, surrounding the hole. A glance down the dark aperture would have been enough for most men, but for those here assembled, the blackness but whetted their curiosity and desire to investigate. A lighted torch was thrown down, but the fearful wind which rushed down the hole extinguished this before it had fallen far.

“Let us all go down in a bunch and with our combined efforts we may be able to keep our feet,” Harry said.

And so it was decided; Mr. Bruce, Mr. Graham and Harry and Onrai were to go down, well tied together, only allowing enough freedom for the limbs to move easily. A small supply of food and a few skins of water were put up and strapped to the back of each and several torches were also taken. It was strange, but Onrai seemed to take quite as much interest in the contemplated subterranean journey as did the other members of the expedition, and he showed more enthusiasm than he had at any time since the arrival of the strangers. This was the first opportunity though that he had had to display any enthusiasm, for everything in this country had been familiar to him since childhood and he could hardly be expected to show any great interest in 208things. But now, though by the eagerness displayed by his guests, he had also had his curiosity aroused and he was really impatient to get started.

“Are you ready, Onrai?” asked Harry.

“I am,” answered Onrai, “and eager to start. If there is anything new in my country, I want to know it.”

“Well, I think you will be surprised by the things that you will see and learn to-day,” said Mr. Bruce. “That is, if the passage-way and its gale of wind are any criterion.”

“’Tis well, let us start,” Onrai answered.

All bade the ladies good-bye, Enola almost crying because Mr. Bruce forbade her accompanying them. Sedai was left to look out for the interest of the women folks.

The four men were now tied together, and many sturdy hands grabbing the strong rope, they were lowered over the side of the hole. Slowly they descended, each moment nearing the passage. Suddenly, without any warning, they were swung in, and the line giving way, they landed on the floor of the cavern. They scrambled to their feet in the dark, for they had not lit the torches in descending, and by keeping breast to back and throwing themselves well against the wind by leaning as far back as possible, they were enabled to keep their feet and advance. The angle was reached and they turned; now the wind caught them full force again, and it was hard to keep an upright position. They were in hopes of reaching another passage though, through which the wind did not rush with such force, and where they could keep their torches lit. If they could not find such a one, they might as well return, for they could explore or learn nothing in this Egyptian darkness.

209Slowly they proceeded, feeling their way every step, and keeping tight against the right wall. Mr. Bruce, who was in the lead, suddenly felt an opening on the right, and telling his companions to follow him, turned into this new avenue. They were now comparatively out of the wind and, stopping, they lit a torch. Looking about them they saw, grinning at them with open mouths and sightless eyes, thousands of human faces.

Mr. Bruce, who held the torch, dropped it to the floor at the ghastly sight which met his gaze. From all sides these horrible visages were looking at them. There seemed to be thousands of them; in fact, the number seemed unlimited and as the torch flickered away on the floor, casting long shadows over these sombre surroundings, the scene was enough to curdle the blood of the strongest. Mr. Bruce stooped and picked up the torch again, he having recovered from the shock which the scene first gave him.

The hall was about fifty feet wide and ten feet high; the depth could not be ascertained because it went beyond the vision. They had entered the hall by a door about seven feet high from the corridor of winds. This hall or chamber was like the corridor hewn out 210of the solid rock, the ceiling, sides and floor being perfectly smooth. The party now began to examine the bodies which were arranged in groups about the walls and piled in heaps all over the chamber. These figures were small, being on an average about five feet in length; but the bodies had been well-proportioned in life more than likely, but now the skin was drawn tightly over the bones; the lips having dried and drawn away from the teeth, leaving the grinning, ghastly expression, which first struck such horror to the hearts of the explorers. The bodies were nude, having no covering whatever, but around each, just below the arms, was a band of copper. There were no signs of embalming cloths at all about the chamber and their bodies had seemingly been preserved by a process of injection of some powerful fluid, whilst there was a natural means of some kind in these underground passages which preserved them. The skin was almost black and rather thin, having that dull color which death or age gives to the skin; it shone like ebony.

Mr. Bruce took hold of several of the bodies and removing them, found their limbs and arms as pliable as in life. This, too, was against all natural and scientific principles and could not be explained.

“What do you think of all this?” asked Mr. Bruce of Mr. Graham.

“I should say that these bodies had been here for some time, but how long it would be impossible to say,” answered Mr. Graham.

“Onrai,” said Mr. Bruce, “have you ever seen any such people in your country?”

“Never,” answered Onrai, and his face looked puzzled. “I cannot understand this at all. Can it be that 211these people have always inhabited these underground passages, here under our country? Can this be the great death hole, to which the wicked are condemned?” and Onrai turned to look about him.

“No, no, Onrai, let not such thoughts come into your mind,” said Mr. Bruce. “These are dead and they know no suffering. If they were, as you suppose, they would be alive and undergoing great torture. You have been kept in ignorance of the existence of these people for good reasons, or it may be that the founder of your country knew nothing of this.”

“But are there any of these now living, I wonder? This we must learn before returning, so let us go on, taking good care not to lose our way,” said Mr. Graham.

They accordingly moved along through the death chamber, keeping straight ahead. The chamber seemed unending and went on and on, with the dead still piled in heaps and leaning against the walls. It must have taken ages to accumulate these thousands of dead.

“There seems no end to all this,” said Mr. Graham. “I would prefer that we get out of this place and into another not so thickly populated with the dead.”

“It must end some place,” said Mr. Bruce, and he had hardly finished speaking, when a wall loomed up ahead of him and the chamber was ended.

“Well, we are a nice lot,” said Harry; “there is no opening here and we will have to return.”

But after looking around for some time, and by moving several of the bodies, an opening was discovered in one corner. This was small, but after crawling through it the party found themselves in another corridor, resembling the one of the winds. The hideous 212sight of the dead was now lost and they passed on down a smooth hallway quickly, nothing obstructing their headway. On, on they went, the corridor leading in a straight line, as near as they could calculate, in a southeasterly direction.

“I should much rather have followed the windy passage, if it had been possible,” said Mr. Bruce.

“And I,” said Mr. Graham. “But to fight against being blown away by that strong current would soon have exhausted us. But we may strike it again further on.”

“Yes,” said Harry, “and this passage may be leading us to great discoveries. I believe that if any of the strange race of people are yet alive, they must use this passage, for it would be quite impossible for them to get through the windy one.”

“How long it must have taken to cut this hall from a solid rock,” said Mr. Bruce, “and how many thousands of men it must have taken to accomplish this immense work.”

“It was not done in a day or a year, or in many years,” said Mr. Graham. “Still the work looks as if it might have been done years or hundreds of years ago.”

“We have made a greater discovery than the one of On,” said Mr. Bruce.

“That’s so,” answered Mr. Graham, “for this has the additional interest of being underground.”

“Is it possible?” said Onrai, “that my people have lived so long over these strange inhabitants of the under world and have learned nothing of them?”

“Your people are not at all curious, Onrai, or they 213would have long ago investigated these things,” said Mr. Bruce. “The desire for discoveries is altogether lacking in your make-up, and your laws have had a great deal to do with it. You believe that yours is the only race on this earth and that all things are known to you, so you have never thought it necessary to look beyond the things that be.”

“There is much for us to learn here,” said Onrai, a puzzled look coming into his face.

“No,” answered Mr. Bruce, “you know enough to make your lives contented and happy and anything beyond that would be folly. But that certain things exist that you do not know of, there is no doubt; these, however, are not necessary to your happiness or well-being, and for this reason have been kept from you. I would not let the things which you are now learning of for the first time, worry me in the least if I were you. Whatever these underground passages may bring to light, they cannot in the least effect you or yours; so it would be best not to give these any serious thought yourself or ever mention them to your subjects.”

“I believe you are right,” said Onrai, “for we are happy now and any greater knowledge might make us discontented, giving us a desire to reach out and learn more, thus making us restless. I can now realize how this can be.”

They were still following the smooth-floored corridor and throughout its entire length it had kept up that uniform width and height. The angle formed by the meeting of the floor and walls was sharp and perfectly cut as could be, and the beautiful arched roof showed wonderful skill in chiseling. They all walked 214along, after this conversation, each one engrossed in his own thoughts, when Onrai, who was in the lead, stopped, and stooping, picked up a peculiar-shaped spear; the handle was short and made of the backbone of some kind of fish; the head was long and narrow and made of a very flinty stone; this head was set into the handle, a slot being cut into the latter for this purpose; a cement was used to fasten this head firmly into the handle, it also being bound to it by thongs in much the same manner as are all spearheads of the African tribe. Examining it more closely, stains were seen on the head and handle, and the handle was notched in several places. The spear might have been left there a day before or a century before; it was in a perfect state of preservation, but the substance of which it was made was very nigh indestructible, so it might have laid there for ages.

“This passage has never been used since that spear was left here,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Why do you think so?” asked Mr. Graham.

“Because,” answered Mr. Bruce, “if it had been the spear would undoubtedly have been picked up, as it is more than likely that these are not so easily made as to be thrown away or left without being picked up.”

“If that be so,” said Mr. Graham, “it tells nothing that we may want to know. We are only interested in the live portion of this race, if there be any of them yet extant, and we want some clew that will lead us to them.”

“Well, I can say this much,” said Mr. Bruce, “that we will find them ahead of us if we find any at all.”

215“Another indefinite declaration,” said Mr. Graham, “tell us how you know this, Mr. Bruce?”

“Why this spearhead was lying, turned in that direction in which we are going and when it was dropped, it was but natural that its loser was moving in the same direction, for in falling it would naturally fall that way.”

“There is considerable in that argument,” said Harry, “and I agree with you, Mr. Bruce, that whoever dropped it was the last person through here and was going in the direction in which we are now moving.”

“Well, we shall see,” said Mr. Graham, “have you made out the stains on the handle, Mr. Bruce?”

“No, but they look very much like congealed blood and I suppose they are nothing else. These people probably use the spear for killing fish.”

“Why fish,” asked Onrai.

“Well, that was only another supposition of mine,” said Mr. Bruce. “You see it is hardly likely that these people have any land animals down here. Such things have never been found yet or at least not in any numbers. But fish in subterranean rivers and lakes are very prevalent; in fact an underground river or lake is seldom found without these fish, some of them, as is the case in the great Mammoth Cave of Kentucky, being without eyes. Then, we know that these people find fish in some part of their underground home, for we have the proof of it here,” and Mr. Bruce held up the spear handle.

“But do you know that that is fish bone?” asked Harry.

216“Well, from what I have learned on the subject, I should say that it was,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Yes, it looks like a bone in the fish we catch in the lake,” said Onrai.

“Well, it is decided that it is a fish bone and the stains are made by the fish blood,” said Mr. Bruce. “Now, we know that somewhere in this cave there is a river or lake and I would say that the passage, which we are now traversing, is but the avenue leading to the death chamber. These people probably realize that it is best to have the dead well-removed from the living quarters, for the same reason, may be, that we do this above. Therefore we are on the right road to the living habitations of this people, if there be any of them now living. Listen,” and as Mr. Bruce, ceased speaking, he stopped and the others following his example, a low buzzing sound was heard like the hum of many voices.

“What is it,” whispered Mr. Graham.

“Hard to tell,” said Mr. Bruce, “but we will soon learn for it is growing louder,” and raising his torch he blew it out, leaving them in perfect darkness.

“What shall we do?” asked Onrai.

“It is hardly safe to look forward, and it looks decidedly cowardly to retreat, and we will be an open mark if we stand still,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Let us move a little further forward,” said Mr. Graham, “and we may find a hiding place. If we find that these people are coming this way and are in great numbers, we can keep ahead of them until we reach the death chamber, when we can barricade the small entrance with the bodies and in this way hold off an army.”

217They all agreed to this and moved a little further forward. The passage at this point made a slight turn to the south and as our friends rounded the corner they came in sight of a number of lights far down the passage. These were being carried by a number of beings, who looked, at this distance, to resemble the bodies in the death chamber. Our friends stopped, not knowing whether to turn and go back or keep on for a short distance.

“Look well down on the left,” said Harry, “don’t you see that hole in the wall?” They looked and all saw it, but it was fully half-way between the torchbearers and themselves. It would be almost suicidal to try and reach it, but Mr. Bruce, who was looked on as the ringleader of the party, said: “Come, keep close to the left wall and walk sideways and step as quickly as possible. I think we can reach the hole before they see us. They seem to be engrossed in something else at present and not expecting to find any strangers in this hole, which has never seen one before probably. We may escape them.”

And so saying, Mr. Bruce took the lead. They hurried forward, walking with their backs to the wall. The natives were coming towards them slowly and each moment brought them into better view. Their figures were perfectly nude and of a bluish-white color; looking as if they might have been black originally, but long absence from the light of day had faded them to the present color. They were not over five feet in height and their bodies were slender. They were chanting a strange dirge in a peculiar tone and this did not make the strangers’ position any brighter.

Slowly our friends moved toward them and the hole. 218They were still hid in the shadows, but they could not expect to be out of the light of the torches much longer, for the natives were now getting very near them. The hole was nearly reached when a shout went up from the natives, but instead of hurrying forward they crowded back, apparently afraid to encounter the strangers which they saw coming toward them.

“Keep on to the hole,” said Mr. Bruce.

They did so, and a moment later reached it and passed through. When they were all inside the new chamber or hall, they stopped; it being perfectly dark. The torchbearers, after running back for a short distance, stopped, and again resuming their chant, started forward. Our friends stood perfectly still, and threw themselves on the defensive. They could see the light through the doorway growing brighter and brighter, and could hear the voices growing louder. Had they seen them, or was the shout caused by something else? It might have been a part of the strange proceedings which they were now going through.

“Do nothing until they attempt to enter the opening,” said Mr. Bruce, “then use your weapons.”

The procession outside came nearer and the chant grew louder, as if the strange people would in this way strengthen their courage. What would it be, fight, or run, or neither? Whatever it was to be they would soon know, for now they were at the doorway and passing. They are safe.

“No, look,” said Mr. Graham, “the door——”

It was true. A huge stone was slowly moving into the open place, making them prisoners.

219

The howling mob came hurrying toward them; their faces distorted with horrible grimaces, their arms flying in the air, brandishing spears like the one found in the corridor. They came on howling, yelling and shouting in a blood-curdling way.

“Fall back, slowly,” said Mr. Bruce, “but keep in this corridor.”

They retreated slowly, keeping their faces on the approaching mob.

“If they come too near discharge your pistols in their midst,” continued Mr. Bruce.

The natives were gaining on them fast, but they were not moving as quickly as they might, showing that they were undecided as to whether it would be best to attack the strangers or not. There seemed to be about two hundred of them, each bearing a torch in one hand and a spear in the other.

As time went on and they saw the hostile movements on the part of the strangers, they became bold and moved more rapidly. They were closing up quickly when our friends heard a shout in the rear, and looking over their shoulders saw another mob of the natives closing in on them from that direction.

226“Which shall it be?” said Mr. Bruce, “advance or retreat.”

“Advance,” said Harry, “and give those howling demons a taste of lead.”

On all the excursions our friends had carried their small arms but had never used them; but they had these with them now and it was well that they had taken this precaution, for nothing else would have had as much effect on this barbarous race of underground dwellers, as the noise and explosion of the pistols would. Our friends were still standing waiting for the men to advance. The natives, seeing that they now had their game safe, became wilder in their demonstrations and bolder in their movements. The body in the rear also hurried forward and in a very short time the strangers in this horrible place found themselves very sorely pressed.

“Now,” said Mr. Bruce, “make a rush and fire as you go. Harry, you and I will take the lead, for it is best to go in twos. When the chambers of our revolvers are empty, we will drop behind and let Mr. Graham and Onrai take the lead. If these beasts do not turn and run, charge right into them, for it is our only chance. Now, forward, double quick.”

The men started on a run, discharging their revolvers as they went. At each discharge, one of the natives would fall, for they were so tightly wedged in the narrow passage, there was no chance of missing them. As our friends started and the fearful noise of the pistols, as they were discharged, rung through the cavern, the natives stopped and watched the advance with open-mouthed wonder. Then they saw their companions dropping one at a time as the weapons were 227discharged, they began to grow uneasy, and then to move slowly backward and then, at last, as the full force of the panic struck them, they turned and fled down the corridor, each trying to outrun the other and trampling those under foot who were unlucky enough to fall. On, on they flew over the hard surface of the cave, occasionally throwing frightened glances over their shoulders as they ran; then, seeing those strangers still after them, they strove still harder to place a greater distance between themselves and their pursuers.

Those in the rear of our friends had turned and ran in the opposite direction from which they came, when they saw their companions retreat. They saw too the work of those awful barking, smoke-belching weapons and thinking that they might be turned on them in the same manner, probably thought it best to get out of the way as quickly as possible. This took a considerable load from off the minds of our friends, for they had feared that these howling barbarians would attack them from the rear as they ran. After the first three or four discharges of the pistols had started their enemies, they had discontinued firing in order to save their ammunition, but they kept up the pace and were close on the heels of the devils. Suddenly the mob turned to the right and disappeared. As our friends had thrown away the lighted torch, when first surprised by the natives they were now left in total darkness again and when the danger disappeared, they stopped to hold a consultation. Looking back they saw that their former pursuers had also left the corridor and this decided them to wait a few minutes for further developments.

“We must be careful now,” said Mr. Bruce, “for 228these natives may lay in ambush and attack us, as we advance or retreat. They are cunning, as they have shown by their smoking process, and we must be on our guard.”

“I think they are so badly scared they will not again bother us;” said Harry.

“Perhaps so,” said Mr. Bruce, “but if they have a means of attacking us without running any risk of personal injury to themselves, you may remain assured they will do so.”

“They are a strange race of men,” said Onrai, “I thought, when I first looked upon your people, that you were small in stature, but these are very much smaller and are hideous. Do you think them human?”

“Human, yes,” said Mr. Bruce, “but of a very low order of humanity. The race has so long inhabited these underground dwellings that they have become wild and barbarous.”

“They must be,” said Onrai, “for they are so unlike your race. But do you suppose that they have always lived here or have they come from another world like yourselves? I cannot believe that they have been here, right under our fair Land of On, for long, for if they had we would have known it.”

“But how would you have known it, Onrai?” asked Mr. Graham. “You nor yours have ever investigated nor have you ever cared to, and you might have gone down to your graves and countless generations of those who follow you have done the same, without ever knowing that these strange people lived beneath your land, in the very bowels of the earth. And, we have said so frequently, Onrai, your people have no 229curiosity and take no heed of things which do not directly concern them.”

“It is better so, I think,” answered Onrai; “for surely you can find no happiness in an undertaking like this, can you?”

“Well, yes, we can,” answered Mr. Bruce, “for in the first place it is a pleasure to us to see and learn of new and strange things. That is where one’s curiosity comes in, you see; and then we enjoy, in a way, the excitement which such adventures always bring. But at the same time I would not recommend any such questionable pleasures to those who have never had any desire for them. But we are in a strange place and predicament now to be discussing this question. We must decide on which way we are going and how we are going to proceed.”

“What do you say, Mr. Graham?” asked Onrai.

“Well,” said Mr. Graham, “we have kept in one direction so far and I see no reason for returning now. Our friends will not worry about us if we do not return for two or three days and there are many things here which I would like to find out before going back. We have proceeded so far and it will be no more difficult for us to get back from a short distance beyond here than it would be from this point. So let us go ahead.”

“Agreed,” said Harry, “and let us keep close together, for we may need each other’s immediate help.”

“Yes,” said Mr. Bruce, “we must move cautiously and silently if possible and may be we will pass the point where the natives turned off.”

With this they moved on, feeling their way by the 230walls of the corridor and keeping close together. A braver lot of men it would have been hard to find; in fact, not one of these men felt the least fear even after their recent experience, unless it might have been Onrai, and it was not a fear with him, but more that unexplained uncertainty. He had been led to think, throughout his life, that his race was the only one inhabiting this world and he had first been visited by a number of strange people, even coming into his company in a strange way. He had accounted for these by believing that they had come from another planet. This had not worried him but only a few days before, while moving through his country his men had found a woman and child, which had evidently belonged to another race of people. This had set him to thinking and now, down here in the bowels of the earth, living in caves hewn out of rock, he had found still another race, a miserable half-dwarfed race, and Mr. Bruce had assured him that these people had lived here for ages, probably longer than had his people in the open country above. All these things had upset the teachings and the beliefs of a lifetime and Onrai now was in a doubt as to what to believe. But he felt no fear really, but only a disgust, brought on by all this doubt.

The party calculated that they had now reached the point where the natives had disappeared and the precautions were doubled. The floor of the cavern at this point was strewn with spears, which had been dropped by the frightened natives and it was hard work to walk over these in the dark without making some noise, but no signs of natives were seen, as it was supposed that they had hid themselves in some remote part of the cave. After passing this point, the explorers 231moved faster but did not attempt to light a torch.

“Do you think that we can be able to find the other corridor again, the one by which we entered this place?” asked Onrai.

“That’s so,” said Mr. Bruce. “I had forgotten that we were now in another corridor.”

“No,” said Harry, “and even if we look for it we would not know where to find it. We may wander about here for weeks or months and never find our way out.”

“Now, these are disagreeable things which we must not think of if we would enjoy this adventure to the fullest,” said Mr. Graham. “I can understand that to be lost in this hole would be fearful, but we are not lost yet, for if we are, we are not aware of the fact; so let us not think of that. We must try, however, to keep in this corridor or one which leads off from it and to know at all times just how many turns we make.”

“It would be well for us to notch these walls occasionally, or in some other way leave marks by which we can find our way back,” said Mr. Bruce.

“That is a grand idea,” said Harry, “and I will commence right here by scratching the wall.”

The torch was lit and Harry, taking one of the spears, attempted to chip the wall with this, but one stone was as hard as the other, seemingly, and the spearhead would make no impression.

“We will have to find some other means than this,” said Harry. And stooping, he looked over the floor of the cave, in hopes of finding something which would cut the hard stone. But he was not successful, so the notching was given up.

232The corridor still stretched out straight ahead of them, and they hurried along as fast as their tired limbs would allow their doing.

“What time is it, Mr. Bruce?” asked Harry.

“Why, it is nine o’clock,” answered Mr. Bruce; “and to tell the truth I feel as though it were twelve. A little rest would not go amiss.”

“But I do not think it advisable to sleep here,” said Mr. Graham, “we are not far enough away from that bloodthirsty mob.”

“No,” said Mr. Bruce, “we will hurry on for a while yet, and if no side aisle leads off into which we can hide for a few hours, we will lie down in this, leaving watchers.”

For another hour they trudged along, until thoroughly exhausted and ready to drop, they decided upon taking a short rest. The first watch fell to Harry, and he took his stand against the wall, being afraid that if he sat down he would go to sleep. The others stretched themselves out upon the hard floor of the corridor, and in a moment were fast asleep. Harry put out the torch for fear of its attracting attention to them, should any of the natives happen in the corridor.

The moments passed on leaden wings; his eyes grew heavy and he began pacing the corridor to keep awake; his legs were too weary to longer support his body and he squatted down upon the floor with his back resting against the side wall. The scenes of the day passed through his mind in a dreamy sort of way. In a short time he caught himself dozing; then tired nature asserted itself and his eyes closed and refused to open again; his head dropped to one side and he 233slept. How long he had slept he did not know, but he was awakened by a humming noise, which seemed far away and yet very close. Starting up and opening his eyes he looked far up the corridor in the direction in which they were traveling and there he saw a procession of torches coming toward him. He hastily awakened his companions and telling them what was up they held a consultation.

It seemed folly to longer go ahead, for these bodies of natives might be met continually and to have to chase them every few hours would be nonsense. Harry had walked up the corridor a ways, while the others were talking, feeling his way by the wall when his hand, which went out to touch this wall failed to come in contact with it; he tried again with the same result and then moved his body in that direction thinking that he might have wandered away from the wall. But there was no wall at this point and after moving in this direction for a short distance, he struck a match; he could not see very closely, but he understood that he was in a side corridor or room of some kind. He at once called to his companions and they having joined him, they lit a torch; the natives still being a great distance up the corridor. This room was considerably larger than the one in which they had been imprisoned and was evidently a living chamber; for in one corner was a raised slab, on which were dead coals and some fish offal. The room had evidently been used very recently from the looks of the fish remains.

On the opposite side of the room was another door, leading into another corridor, and upon examining this corridor it was found to extend only a short distance 234and end against a solid rock. But if there was a secret door in this rock, the explorers could not see and they had no time to give it a thorough examination, because of having to extinguish the torch, the natives now getting very close.

“What shall we do now?” asked Harry.

“I think,” said Mr. Bruce, “it will be well to hide behind the slab on which are the coals and watch the procession as it passes. They cannot certainly be after us, for they have not had time to get so far ahead of us. It is probably another band on their way to this part of the cave for some purpose or other.”

They took up their positions behind the slab, lying on their sides with their heads just above the stone, looking for the natives. They could be heard coming, chanting a dismal dirge; the glare of the torches already lighting up the hall outside. “I would not care to be made a prisoner again,” said Harry.

“They can’t catch us in the same way here,” said Mr. Bruce, “for these arches have no sliding doors.”

“This may be some holiday celebration,” said Mr. Graham.

“It may be their Day of Resis,” said Onrai, “that is if they have a Day of Resis.”

“I doubt their having such a day, Onrai, although we do not know what the ceremonies of your Day of Resis are, but look they are opposite.”

The first one of the procession now came up and our friends lowered their heads as they passed, but the natives were seemingly oblivious of their presence, the explorers grew bolder and raising their heads well above the slab watched the procession. First the men came, bearing torches stuck on the ends of spears, 235then came a number of men bearing spears alone; following these were a number of women each carrying a peculiar-shaped fish—a sort of combination fish and lizard, as it had four short legs and feet; there were a great number of these and it took a long time for them to pass; after them came a great number of children, ranging, as nearly as the explorers could guess, between the ages of five and ten; each of these children bore a small piece of coal, which brought to the minds of our friends thoughts of the great cave which they had crossed in coming to the Land of On. Following the children was another body of men and it was these men who were chanting. The wailing tones of these men, as they came nearer, were fearful to hear and our friends felt the cold chills running down their backs. These men also carried torches, black torches, which looked as though they were made of sharpened pieces of coal; they made a very bright light and but little smoke. As the men came forward it could be seen that they were bearing a very thin slab of stone on their shoulders and on the slab lay the body of a native. It was a funeral procession.

They watched the funeral rites, and soon afterward discovered that they were lost in the ground, and did not know their bearings. They thought they must be several miles within, as the direction taken from 236the point where they entered the cave was several days’ journey from the City of On, and as they had traveled nearly due south, or as nearly as they could calculate, they must now be a good many miles from the secret door. They might take the same corridor which they had traversed in coming to the lake, as this would take them directly to the hole near which the rest of the excursionists were awaiting them; but this was dangerous and it was quite possible that before they had gone far into this, they would again fall into the hands of the natives.

They were in a quandary as to what to do. If they traveled to the east in quest of the hidden door, they might not find it, and before they could again reach the long corridor they would be overcome by hunger, thirst and fatigue.

“What shall we do,” asked Harry.

“I think,” said Mr. Bruce, “it would be well to strike straight for the north wall and when this is reached we may find another opening which will take us in a roundabout way to the hole leading to the surface. You know we left the windy corridor and took one to the right. This windy corridor may lead to this cavern also. If this were so it would come out further to the east, or may be at a point directly south of where we are now.”

“Even if that should be so,” said Mr. Graham, “could we beat against that wind for so many miles?”

“I am afraid not,” said Mr. Bruce, “but other corridors may lead from it, which would carry us into one or the other halls which we have already traversed, but at a point beyond all danger.”

237“It is a chance, at least,” said Harry, “that is, if this corridor leads into the cave.”

“Are we beneath the Land of On, now?” asked Onrai, who had spoken but seldom since coming into this strange place.

“No, Onrai,” said Mr. Graham, “we are under the mountains or cliffs which surround your country. These though may be said to belong to the Land of On, or half of them at least, for they stand on the dividing line.”

“It is strange,” said Onrai, “that I should never have known of all this or that my people had never learned of it before me.”

For a second time Onrai had spoken thus and the events of the past few hours seemed to have made a great impression on his mind; he could not realize that all these things had existed for years and hundreds of years. It all seemed so improbable to one who had been taught to believe that his race was the only people and that his or their land above the surface, was the only country. He had seen strange things in the past few hours the only strange things he had ever seen in his life, with the exception of our friends, if they may be classed under this category.

“I will have strange tales to tell my people,” said Onrai.

“You must not tell them of these things,” said Mr. Graham, “for it would but make them discontented and long to see them also. It would be much better never to mention these; you can easily evade the subject when broached and our people will never say anything.”

“Do you think they would care to investigate?” 238asked Onrai. “I would never care to come here again and I cannot believe that they would ever care to visit this place if I should explain to them the danger and trouble attending the trip.”

“Yes, it would be better, would it not?” said Mr. Bruce, “to obey the laws which have governed you for centuries, and which forbids your prying into anything which has not already been explained by these laws.”

“I begin to think as you do,” said Onrai, “but I doubt my ability to keep from my people, should they ask me, the things which I have learned here. We have never had secrets, as you have taught me to call these things, and I have not learned the art of withholding things which I do not wish to say.”

“Nothing may be said to you about your journey, and then it would be easy enough, would it not, to keep these things to yourself?”

“It may be so,” said Onrai.

They were traveling in a good easy walk, and were covering considerable ground, but they were growing weary and it was decided to rest for a few hours. This they proceeded to do, but before they stretched out on the hard floor, they blew out the torches so that any of the natives, who might be prowling about, would not see them and again be on them. The journey had been long and they had had but little rest, so when they finally lay down and stretched out their weary limbs, their eyes soon closed and all was forgotten in a very few moments. The hard floor of the cave, the memories of the recent events, the fear of not again finding their way out of the dark hole, these things could not keep them awake for they were worn 239out, mind and body, and once they had fallen into a reclining position, they were soon oblivious to everything.

They had been sleeping for hours, it seemed to Harry, when he was awakened by a distant cry. It sounded to him like the yell of the natives, when they had first discovered the strangers. He looked about him half dreamily but could see nothing and turned over, thinking he would sleep awhile longer as the others had not yet awakened. He was just falling off again, when that cry broke out just a little shriller than before. This time Harry jumped to his feet, certain now of its being a human cry. He looked about him, he even took a few steps away from his sleeping companions, and stopping again, listened. No, he could hear nothing; still, he was sure that he had not been mistaken. All sleep had now been knocked out of him, and feeling refreshed he knew that he had been sleeping for some time. He walked over to his companions and awakened them, but before he had time to interfere or explain to them what it was that had awakened him, Mr. Bruce had lit a match, and with this, the torch. Harry made a movement as if he would extinguish this, and not having heard the sound after this second awakening, he thought there might be just a possibility of his having been mistaken. But he told his companions of the occurrence so that they might not blame him if anything should come of it later.

“I could not say that you were mistaken, Harry,” said Mr. Bruce, “but it seems very probable that we would see some light if these natives were again on our track.”

240“Yes,” said Harry, “I don’t suppose they have dark lanterns which would give them light, but would still keep the light hid from us.”

“They might have such lights,” said Mr. Graham, “but we would see the reflection on the ground, at least.”

They had now started again when Harry stopped, saying:

“How do we know that we are moving in the right direction? We may have turned completely in our moving about, and may now be making a bee line for the lake.”

The party stopped, looking at each other in a puzzled way. Mr. Bruce’s face lighted up though as he asked:

“Did you touch my torch, Harry?”

“No,” answered Harry.

“Well, and then we can depend on it, that we are moving in the same direction that we were before, for I laid down the torch with the burnt end looking in the direction we were going when I laid down, and when I picked it up and lighted it again, after you had awakened us, I remember I was standing facing the same way, and I did not turn again before we started.”

“But that tells nothing,” said Mr. Graham, “for we may be walking round and round in a circle not a mile in circumference. We have nothing to guide us, and it very often occurs, in cases of this kind, that the travelers who think themselves miles away from their starting point will, the next moment, bring up at the same spot.”

The friends stood and looked at each other as Mr. 241Bruce said this; the terrible truth flashing upon them. It was only too true; they were helpless in this great dark cavern. They might wander until starved and famished, and still be miles from the encircling wall, or may be but a few feet from it. It would only be chance if they should come up to the wall; not chance either, for even chance was barred in this Egyptian darkness. It would be the hand of Providence which saved them if they should ever now escape from this cave. If they had followed the lake until the bridge had been reached, they could then have followed the old path to the hidden door, and in that way have gotten out. But no, the only thought they had in getting away from the scene of such carnage, was to leave it far behind and to reach their friends as soon as possible.

They realized their mistake, but now it was too late. The thought completely prostrated them as its full significance dawned upon them.

“But we must not give up while there is strength left,” said Mr. Bruce; “so let us go on in some way, even if we are bearing right away from our goal. We may be right, you know. Anyway we will never find our way out of this by standing still.”

They again took up their way, but with a halfheartedness, which made every step a task and every movement painful. It was strange how these strong men, who had just gotten up from a refreshing sleep, well and hearty, should so soon be changed to despondent beings; their faces looking years older and their gait indicating feebleness. Such is the change which the awful sense of complete helplessness had wrought in these men. They had hit upon a possibility, even a 242probability, and all else had been forgotten from that moment they had given themselves up for lost, lost in this vast cavern, which had probably been the tomb of many others.

When these thoughts took possession of them, they could not be persuaded that there was any possibility of escape, and it was no wonder they lost hope so quickly, for here was a cave miles in extent, without a guiding light or post to beckon them on. All was dark and still as the death which would so soon claim them. For some strange reason, Onrai seemed to be more affected than any of the others. He said but little, but his face was painful to look at, so frightfully changed had it become. He shuffled along, his shoulders bent and feet dragging over the ground like a man of eighty.

Occasionally he would mutter to himself:

“I have missed my Day of Resis!”

This seemed to be the thing which was worrying him.

“Wait,” said Harry, and they all stopped suddenly, for this was the first word which had been spoken by any of the party excepting Onrai. “When wandering in the cave, as we came,” went on Harry, “I remember seeing pieces of coal lying along the path. The thought has just occurred to me that these marked the path, or else how could the natives find their way. Now, if we could find these.”

“But these would be as hard to find as the border wall,” said Mr. Graham.

“True,” said Harry, his face again falling, “but it is another chance and this makes two.”

This cheered them but little, however, and despair 243took possession of them completely a few moments later. They ought to have reached the wall hours before, yet there were no signs of it. Suddenly they were brought to a stand by the same cry, which had awakened Harry. There was no mistaking it now; it was human and right in front of them.

Our friends stopped. There was no mistaking the cry now; it was human and only a few feet ahead of them. They peered through the gloom but could see nothing; the man, whoever he was, could not be far away, so they moved forward and a moment later a dark mass was seen lying on the floor of the cave just ahead of them. As they hurried up to this, another cry went up from the heap. Our friends now came up to the object and found it to be a native. As they approached and stood over him, he raised his head and looked at them in a half-scared way and then tried to crawl away from them. Seeing them following him he raised to his feet and staggered along for a short distance but again fell. The party now saw that his left side from knee to shoulder was badly lacerated, but how had he come into this condition? Had he been wounded in a fight or in a blast and brought to this fearful place to die?

Although this man was probably one of their captors and would have helped to kill them if they had not turned the tables on them, still the man’s plight was so pitiful and his condition so helpless that their sympathy went out to him at once and coming up close to where he had fallen, Mr. Graham stooped and taking the bag of water from his back, poured its contents over the raw wounds of the native. He writhed under the momentary pain, but realizing that they 244wished to help him, he tried to facilitate their good acts by turning his side to them, exposing the wound. He kept looking at Onrai, as if the King had a fascination for him, which he could not resist and at last he raised his hand and motioned to Onrai to approach. Onrai came up to him and the native looked at him for fully a moment, then addressed him in the language of On.

Onrai started back completely surprised by hearing his own language spoken by this man. The native’s face fell, showing that he had built much on this disclosure to the King and the result had bitterly disappointed him.

“Speak to him, Onrai,” said Mr. Bruce.

Onrai again stepped up to the native and asked him how he had become acquainted with his language.

“The story is long and I am hurt,” answered the man, “but if you will carry me to the lake, where my companions were killed, and let me there wash my wounds, I will tell you all.”

“The lake,” said Mr. Graham, “why, my good man, that is many miles away.”

“No,” answered the man, “it is only a short distance from here.”

Our friends looked at each other with astonishment; they had seen the lake upon their entrance; their fears then had been realized; they had been describing a circle and were now but a few feet from the starting point. But there was now hope and the men carefully lifted the native and carried him in the direction indicated by him and in less than five minutes they were again standing by an underground lake. The man was laid on the floor of the cave and his wounds 245washed again with water. Harry tore from his tunic a piece of the silk and this was bound about the wound.

“Do you know a way by which we can reach the death chamber without traversing that part of the cave where your people live?” Onrai asked.

“I do,” said the man, “but I could not explain so that you could understand.”

“But if we took you with us, could you guide us?” asked Onrai.

“But am I strong enough to walk?” asked the man, and he tried to rise to his feet.

“You may be able to walk a part of the way and we will carry you the remainder,” said Onrai.

“I can guide you,” said the stranger, and his face lighted up with hope as he thought that he might yet see that great outside world of which he had heard. The more the native thought of this, the more probable it seemed to him and with this great hope springing into life came renewed energy, and after awhile, when Mr. Bruce had bandaged the wounds well and he had been given something to eat he stood erect and declared that he could walk as well as ever. But this he could not do, although with help he got along very well for a time, and then Onrai picked him up in his powerful arms and carried him as if he were a babe.

Before leaving the lake they had caught some fish after the method of the natives and had cooked them over a slow fire. This they hoped would last them until they reached the upper world. They found the line of coals and found it easy work to follow it. The way was long but not tedious, still there was that desire to leave this place which made the time long and 246the journey anything but pleasant. The native was doing very well with the help of Onrai and would very frequently relate such things concerning his people and country which would help to while away the time.

“We do not know,” said he, “when first our people came into this underground world, nor do we know from whence they came; but we do know from traditions handed down, that we have had this world many, many ages. Then our old tunnels have been abandoned many ages, how many we know not, nor do we know why these have been laid aside for new ones, unless it be because new ones had to be built in order to keep down our population.”

“What do you mean by that?” inquired Mr. Bruce.

“Why,” said the native, “our people increase very rapidly and we can only keep them within bounds by constantly blasting these tunnels. Each blast costs the life of one of our men.”

“But what of the women,” asked Mr. Bruce.

“The women and criminals are all fed to the water-monster,” said the man.

“But are none of these placed in the death chamber?” again asked Mr. Bruce.

“None,” answered the native. “The death chamber is only for the men. At the end of these long tunnels, is the Tunnel of Wind, which keeps a circulation of air in all of them. The wind flies through this tunnel, making no sound and giving no warning, and when once in its awful clutch you are lost.”

“But how do you embalm the bodies of your men,” questioned Mr. Bruce.

“With a preparation of coal and yellow stone, which 247we find in one part of our country. These are pounded into a powder and are then mixed with fish oil and rolled into small cakes and left to dry. These we burn beneath the bodies and the smoke puts them in a state of preservation.”

Our friends had now reached the wall and were about to enter the tunnel indicated by the native when a body of natives jumped forth only a few feet distant and rushed onto them. The explorers started back and seeing that there was a great number of them, decided on retreating. They accordingly followed the wall to the east, running as fast as they could with the wounded native. The natives were following them closely, and our friends, seeing another tunnel, opening out from the cave, turned into it and hurried forward. The natives were hurrying after them. On they rushed covering mile after mile, until breath and strength were nearly exhausted. The natives had called out to them in their language to drop the one of their number which Onrai was carrying. The man interpreted this to Onrai but it only had the effect of making him hold him all the tighter. But after a while the natives began to drop off one by one and our friends were thinking of turning on them, when they saw their tunnel ending in one running at right angles with it. Hurriedly they pushed forward and were just on the edge of the cross-tunnel, when the native called out:

“Not in there, it is the Tunnel of Wind;” but it was too late. They were launched into it and were even now in the power of the mighty wind.

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The ice-cutters, for it were they, had never before in their lives been surprised. They saw coming out of that inky blackness, from far up that windy quarter, 257where none of their people had ever dared to go, a party of half-clad human beings, who staggered on as if intoxicated and, at last, falling at their feet. They hurriedly gathered about the fallen fugitives and throwing restoratives in their faces, tried to make out who they were and if they were any of their people, but these had been rolled about the floor of the windy cavern so long, that what with bruises and dirt, they were unrecognizable. Onrai, who still had enough life left to whisper a few words, motioned for one of the men to stoop; the man did so and started back with still greater surprise, as Onrai said:

“Hurry, get us out of here into the sun. Don’t you know me? I am Onrai.”

The man could not speak for a moment, but then, regaining his senses, said:

“It is Onrai, the King, and his guests; hurry or they will perish.”

In an instant those about them began to take from their bodies the warm garments and place them about the half-frozen bodies of our friends. Then, taking them in their strong arms, they hurried towards the entrance of the cave. This was soon reached, and in the villa just outside, the attendants were soon working hard with their benumbed and bruised bodies. They were first plunged in a bath of warm water and then rubbed down thoroughly; then their wounds were dressed, after which they were placed on comfortable couches and made to rest. The poor underground native was treated likewise, and a suit of the cool silk was thrown about his body after his wound was dressed. He could not understand why all this was being done to him, but he could appreciate the delicate 258touches and the comfort which he was deriving from the treatment. Everything was strange to him; the peculiar white light of the sun, the green fields, the great shady trees, the high elephants, which he could see from his apartment stalking about the garden, and this grand house, to which he had been brought. And the food which they had given him was so different from the fish, which had always been his only diet; and the cooling honey wine, which they poured down his throat.

There was comfort in all this though and very shortly, his wound dressed and pain gone, his weary body soothed by the bath and treatment which the natives had given him, he fell asleep at last; his troubles ended, with no care on his wearied mind.

It had been early morning when our friends had emerged from the cave and after being thoroughly revived, they fell asleep and it was late in the evening before they awakened.

“Onrai,” said Harry, “will you ask one of the attendants what day this is?”

Onrai did so, and turned to him and said:

“We have been gone just six days, according to your method of measuring time.”

“Six days,” exclaimed they all in chorus, “impossible.”

“But then,” continued Mr. Bruce, “when we consider how far we have traveled, we can hardly expect that we have been gone less time than that.”

“Yes, it has been just six days,” said Onrai, “but remember where we were when we started and see where we are now. Why, our friends are three days march from us, that is, easy marches, but I think we 259can overtake them in two days by not taking too long rests.”

“But when shall we start?” asked Mr. Bruce, “our friends must be worried about us.”

“Just whenever you wish to,” answered Onrai, “to-night if you choose.”

“Why not to-night?” asked Harry, “we still have some hours left and going through the cool avenue at night would be grand.”

“Well, so it shall be,” said Onrai, “we will travel with elephants so that, if we get sleepy, we can rest in the howdahs.”

“And can I go with you?” asked the stranger.

“You can, my good man,” said Onrai. “Our friends would want to see and thank the one who has saved us; for if you had not helped us out that night, or day in the tunnel, we might have been wandering until now and on until death relieved us, in that awful hole.”

Elephants were brought and the party again took up their way. The elephants had been kept in an easy gait and had covered many miles and our friends hoped soon to reach the rest of the party.

“When shall we take up the journey again to the fields of diamonds, Onrai?” asked Mr. Bruce, as they rode along.

“Just as soon as you are all ready to start,” answered Onrai.

“And how far are we from the field,” asked Harry.

“Fully two hundred miles, as you would compute it,” answered Onrai.

“Then it will take us about ten days, will it not?” asked Harry.

260“Yes, unless we make longer marches,” said Onrai, “and that is hardly necessary.”

“Not at all necessary,” answered Mr. Bruce, “and we can, by taking easy stages, better see the strange country through which we are passing.”

“Yes,” said Onrai, “and the scenery will be wilder and different in some respects.”

“Ten days to go and fourteen days to return,” said Harry. “That will take pretty near a month.”

“Yes, it will be fully that long before we return,” said Onrai, “and besides we will return by a different route, which will take us considerably longer. The new route will be over the regular macadamized roads, which, for many miles, are used very infrequently; but they are always kept in first-class repair, so that we will experience no discomforts for having left our onyx-floored avenue.”

“It is surely delightful riding over this perfect avenue,” said Mr. Graham, “everything though is delightful in this fair land. How different from that fearful country far down below us.”

“Probably only to us who know the difference,” said Onrai. “They may have their pleasures and comforts and hopes and Day of Resis. We know only what this man has taught us, and he has told us little.”

Again Onrai had mentioned The Day of Resis. What did it mean?

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They jumped back in affright, as the great rock rushed through the air and half buried itself in the soft earth before them. They looked from one to the other, as if seeking an explanation of this new surprise, but none could answer. They could not suppose for a moment that the rock had been broken from the great cliff, for the surface of these was so smooth, nothing could come from this source. They looked above them, but the air was so full of the ashes and dust, they could not penetrate it over a hundred feet. They hurriedly moved away from such a dangerous position, taking the bear and deer with them.

“Where could this rock have come from?” asked Harry.

It puzzled them to answer this question, and they kept their gaze fastened on the cliff above, hoping to see the wind change for a moment, and the cloud of smoke blown from them long enough to see the top. After waiting for some time, the cloudy atmosphere did break for a moment, and far up, so high that they looked like pigmies on top of the cliff, they saw a number 281of negroes, their bodies half hanging over the edge.

“Ah! the mystery is solved,” exclaimed Mr. Bruce. “They are probably the same band which we drove from here last night.”

“Yes, and now we can feel assured that there is a way to reach the summit. Look out!” said Harry, as he saw the negroes start another large stone from the summit.

Down it came dangerously near to the party, and they decided to go back to the old position of the morning, for there they would be out of the way of these falling stones, and they could also drive back any of the negroes if they again tried to return. Back they trudged, taking a part of the deer and bear meat with them, and upon reaching the old stand, and while looking around, they saw, not far away from them, a monstrous tree, which had probably been blown from the summit of the cliffs by the storm. A fire was soon built and the meat roasted and eaten, after which they laid down for a night’s sleep, their day having profited them little but experiences which might do them some good in the near future. They had learned that there was a way to the summit of the cliff, and the finding of this way was to be the work of the morrow. The night was passed as comfortably as could be, on the fearfully hard bed of stone and earth, and early in the morning they were astir again, and after a meal of the roasted venison, they all started for the small pathway in the crevice.

They soon reached this, and falling into single file, with Mr. Bruce in the lead, they kept up the march for a couple of hours, when they were well into the 282heart of the cliff. No other footpath had yet been reached by which they could gain the summit.

“I think,” said Mr. Bruce to Mr. Graham, who was following him, “that we will have to walk right through this mountain, and on to the end of the crevice, when we can turn and climb the cliff from the back, which I expect to find of easy ascent.”

“I quite agree with you,” said Mr. Graham. “It is quite certain that there could be no way of reaching the summit from this crevice; at least, not at this point.”

“It has taken a powerful stirring up of the internal fires to cause this fearful crack,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Yes,” said Mr. Graham, “and that volcano looks as if it might throw out something more than dust and ashes very soon.”

“That it will, and sooner than we will want it to,” replied Mr. Bruce. “We are treading dangerous ground, and we cannot tell what moment we may be overtaken by a flow of molten lava, or a greater shower of ashes, such as buried Pompeii.”

“But,” said Mr. Graham, “if we stop to think of such things, we will not do a great deal of exploring.”

“No,” said Mr. Bruce, “but it is always best to bear these things in mind, and be ready at any moment to meet them as well as we can under the circumstances. But I can scarcely see my way here. Were any torches brought along?”

“Yes, the attendants have torches,” said Mr. Graham.

It was true; at this point the crevice was so deep one might think it was night, so dark had it grown. The torch was lighted, and Mr. Bruce, taking it, they 283all again took up the march. But from this point the path began to widen and ascend, until they were not only again in the sunlight but two could walk abreast, and a little further, and the path had widened until four and five men could walk abreast. The path ascended gradually, so gradually that it was not difficult to climb, and in a short while it ran out even with the surface.

This was a great and pleasant surprise to the explorers, for they had expected to have to tramp much farther before getting out of the hole. They looked about them and saw that they were on the side of a lofty mountain, the cliff opposite being but a precipitous side of the same mountain. This side was very fertile and wooded with great trees almost to its summit.

Below them lay a verdant valley stretching on and on as far as the eye could reach. Onrai looked on in wonderment at this unexpected sight. He had, and so had his people, been led to believe that the world ended at the cliffs, that beyond these was naught but space. He could not have told, had he been asked, how this land ended or how it must look to see no land or water beyond, nothing but that infinite space. It had never occurred to him to think of this himself, but if it had, he would have immediately banished the thought as being perfectly absurd. He had been told that the end was there, and that was enough; it couldn’t be different, and as to how the end might look, that didn’t matter at all. So this was a wonderful sight to him, all this land as far as he could see, covered with verdure and with occasional streams of water running through it. So much like his own fertile 284country, that he might have supposed that he had turned in some magical way on his tramp through the mountains, and was now looking upon that Land of On. If this picture, which stretched out before him, was real and not a dream, as he was almost led to believe, then what of those teachings which declared that their land was the only land, and that their people were the only people. The very foundation of this teaching was shaken when this idea was exploded. He turned and looked at his companions, and then at the great landscape which opened out before him. The attendants were no less surprised at the strange scene, but none of them made any comments.

Turning and looking far up the mountain or volcano, they could now see a round cap at the summit, and out of this poured the fearful smoke. The wind was favorable for the ascent, for it was blowing the smoke over the Land of On, and they could climb without being hampered by the falling ashes.

“We are extremely lucky so far,” said Mr. Graham.

“Yes, and the ascent looks easy enough,” rejoined Mr. Bruce.

“It may prove otherwise before we reach the summit, though,” said Mr. Graham.

“Well,” said Mr. Bruce, “we must get at it, for we should get back to On to-day, if possible.”

“How different are the mountains on this side,” said Mr. Graham.

“They are different, yes,” said Mr. Bruce. “One would hardly suppose that beyond they are so precipitous. The whole Land of On must have been the immense crater of some mighty volcano, at some prehistoric period.”

285“It is hard to tell,” said Mr. Graham. “In my estimation it has been at some remote age a vast inland sea.”

“Either explanation might fit,” said Mr. Bruce. “But let us start. We are losing valuable time.”

Turning toward Onrai they saw him still standing wrapped in deep thought, with the attendants standing near, also looking at that great expanse of field, forest, river and lake before them, with wondering faces.

“Come,” said Mr. Bruce, “we must start. From the summit you can get a better view both of this and your own country. And now we must hasten to reach that summit.”

“You do not seem surprised at the great expanse of land beyond the cliffs,” said Onrai to Mr. Bruce.

“No, I am not surprised,” replied Mr. Bruce, “because I knew that it existed before we ever came to you.”

“And you did not tell me?” inquired Onrai.

“And why should I tell you, Onrai,” asked Mr. Bruce. “Have you not a beautiful country with everything that heart could wish for? Were you not happy there in your belief, and could the knowledge of the fallacy of the teachings which has helped to make you happy make you any happier? You would not have thanked me for such information and I would advise you now, as I have before, to try and forget that you have seen these things.”

“That I can never do,” said Onrai. “But they may never have any great impression on me, further than in making me disbelieve that part of the teachings 286which relates to the end of our world. I cannot believe that any longer, of course.”

“No,” said Mr. Bruce, “but you can refrain from speaking of it, and you can make it a punishable offense for any of these attendants, who have also witnessed these scenes, to ever speak of it; and in this way it will soon be forgotten, and the next generation will go on in blissful ignorance of the existence of the land beyond the cliff. It will be better, will it not?”

“I think so,” answered Onrai.

They were now ascending the mountain, the ascent for a way being very gradual, but as they proceeded further the ascent became steeper and more rugged. No trace of negroes were seen, but our friends knew that the negroes seen the day before on the summit, must be somewhere near. They had probably ascended the mountain in order to get a sight, if possible, of that land from which they had been driven, and in thus doing they had spied those who had driven them from it, and had immediately conceived the idea of hurling the great stones in their midst, and may be, by so doing, kill all, thus giving them an open sesame into the coveted country. They had villages near this point, according to Sedai, and if our friends should fall in with any of these tribes, there would very evidently be more bloodshed, for they were the intruders now and the African negro considers this a sacrilege. Nothing is so sacred to him as his country, and they will fight for this quicker than they will for their wives.

But nothing was seen of these, and no trace was found of a beaten path which might indicate that they lived as high as this on the mountain, or that they 287visited this altitude very frequently. The verdure grew thinner as they ascended, and great hunks of lava were now cropping through the surface soil. The cloud of smoke grew more ominous as they neared it, and looked like a huge umbrella spread, and with the handle resting on the summit of the mountain. The party were getting very close to the summit now, and low rumblings could be heard far beneath the surface; hissing noises were also heard, like that made by water striking hot coals.

At last, after considerable tortuous climbing, they stood at the base of a rugged cliff, which was not more than a hundred feet in height; this was seamed and rough as if it had been thrown up hundreds and may be thousands of years before by an overflow of lava, which, upon cooling, had left this wall about the crater. Following about the base of this for some distance, a place was at last discerned where an ascent might be made, and after hard work and much slipping backward, and three or four narrow escapes from instant death by falling into one of the crevices, the summit was reached. The sight which here met their gaze was forboding, to say the least. They were standing on the top of a wall not more than ten feet thick at this point, and as near as they could guess about one and a half miles long, running about a deep hole or crater, one hundred feet deep. Looking down into this they could see the black smoke issuing from great crevices in the flooring. As it came from these crevices, it was lurid with the glow of the hot fires which was its cause. These crevices were numerous and in places our friends could almost look into them, and into the bright fires burning far 288beneath. After much discussion on the matter, it was determined to try and get down to the floor of this fiery hole which might so soon be filled with molten lava. A place was found where the descent could be made easily and the party started. As they descended, the foul smoke would be blown about them occasionally, almost choking them with its density, but the bottom was reached and they started to cross it in order to get to the opposite side, from which they could look into the Land of On. The flooring was found to be warm and really hot in places, and so crumbling beneath their feet that it was almost impossible to walk. Several of the great crevices were approached, but the smoke would drive them back before they could reach the edge and look into the depths. Most of these crevices were narrow and ran from east to west, but when the centre of the crater was reached a great hole was found, probably the true mouth of the crater. The rumbling here was very distinct and the hissing very plain. The party tried to reach the edge of this wall but was again fought off by the dense smoke. They had passed this and were nearer to the opposite side of the crater, when an unusual loud rumbling was heard and a great crack suddenly opened before them, the shock throwing them off their feet, prostrating them on the ground. Mr. Bruce fell so near this new crevice that his head leaned far over the side, and for a moment it looked as if he would roll into the fearful hole. But he soon recovered himself, and rolling over and over he put a safe distance between himself and the crevice before he ventured to rise to his feet.

When they had all recovered from this surprise and 289fear and had again regained their feet, they approached the crevice and peered into its black depths. Down, down, down it seemed to open, into the very bowels of the earth, and at the bottom they could see a molten mass, boiling, and seething, and hissing, but just for a moment and then the scene was hidden by the black smoke which came pouring up from it.

“Come,” said Mr. Bruce, “we must get out of this.”

The party then hurried as fast as they could to the opposite side of the crater to where the wall was several hundred feet thick, ending on the opposite side in the cliff. A long look was taken at the beautiful Land of On and then the retreat was ordered. They now followed the top of the wall of the crater until they had come to the place where they had ascended this, and then, with but very little difficulty, reached the sloping side and hurriedly descended. It was growing late and already the sun was throwing long shadows over the mountain side.

They had several miles of the strange footpath to cover yet through the dark crevice. They began to feel anxious and hurried still faster as they neared the bottom. The sun sank into the distant valley as they reached the crevice. They were hurriedly following the side of this, looking for a beginning of the footpath, when they heard a loud yell as if from a hundred throats, and looking down they saw a great crowd of black demons holding the end of the footpath.

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The rumbling was heard fully five minutes before the shock came, and our friends had stopped when it had first reached their ears, wondering what could make such a noise. It was all explained, however, when the earth trembled beneath them, nearly throwing them from their feet. Thoughts of the volcano immediately rushed into their minds, and they turned just in time to see a great mass of stone, rock and molten lava mixed with steam and smoke, shoot into the air. It rose to a height of nearly a thousand feet above the mountain, and then fell back into the yawning abyss from which it sprang. Then came another shock and another discharge of rock and ashes, and another and another in such rapid succession that our friends were afraid to move for fear of being thrown flat on the ground.

The air was black with ashes, and smoke, and dust, and a vapor seemed to be rising from the ground, 299which, with the rest, nearly suffocated them. From where our friends now were, they could not see the crevice in the cliff, but they could see the summit of the mountains, and saw huge rocks tumbling from the top and rolling over the edge, being lost to view in the thick atmosphere as they descended.

“We must get out of this,” said Mr. Bruce, “for that volcano may belch forth a stream of lava which will take but a few moments to reach us.”

“Do you think it would flow this way?” asked Mr. Graham. “The opposite side of the mountain would give it a freer channel, I think.”

“It is impossible to tell,” said Mr. Bruce. “The whole side of the cliff might open up and let the lava flow into this slope, entirely unobstructed. These volcanoes change their craters and channels so frequently, there is no telling from what direction the lava will come, or which way it will go.”

“It is quieter now,” said Mr. Graham, “and as we cannot be far from the villa, we had better try and reach it.”

Everybody at this started again and were groping along in the dust-filled atmosphere, when they saw, right ahead of them, the bridge. It took them only a minute to cross this and to get through the break in the wall, and to reach the villa and get into its cool and ash-free atmosphere. It was certainly a great relief for these weary, hungry and dust-besmeared travelers to enjoy once more the delights of a bath, and the splendid cuisine of the villa. They were tired out, and had inhaled the thick atmosphere so long, that their lungs had become almost raw, while their eyes were nearly closed, being swollen and sore. But a 300bath and several applications of sweet honey and wine had made them feel like new persons, and after the evening meal was over, they all declared that such delights as On could offer, were all the more welcome and could be better appreciated after a few days separation from them.

The evening was spent on the terrace, the wind having again shifted, leaving the atmosphere free from the dust and ashes. The column of smoke was very bright to-night, the fire seeming to be nearer the surface, lighting up the great black mass as it poured forth from the crater. In fact at this distance it cast its light, making objects at some distance, quite perceptible. But our friends were surprised to see to what depth the ground about the villa and all the barren waste had been covered by the ashes and dust. Fully one foot of this lay over the surface of the country for miles around. The beautiful lawn here was no more, and the large fields adjoining the villa, which had been used as a pasture for the zebras and cattle were now made useless by the volcano. But this extended only a mile beyond the villa, so said the attendants who had arrived that evening, bringing fresh provisions and ice. This being so, the zebras, cattle and elephants, would be able to find pasturage close at hand, and they were taken there immediately as they were already suffering for food.

But the depth of ashes destroyed the beauty of everything about here; the green lawn, the beautiful trees, all bore the same dull, gray appearance. There was but little enthusiasm then shown by the party on this night, as they walked on to the terrace. The volcano attracted all the attention with its lurid glare, 301mass of smoke and bright red rocks, which were thrown into the air at times.

“I am afraid we have forgotten our object in coming here,” said Enola to Onrai, as they came on to the terrace.

“No,” said Onrai, “I have not forgotten, but I am afraid the brilliants have met the same fate as all else about here. They are buried beneath the ashes of the volcano.”

“What a pity!” said Enola. “We have thus lost one of the most beautiful sights of On.”

“I am afraid so,” continued Onrai. “But wait, let me think. The field of brilliants extends far to the north, if I remember rightly, and we may reach a point beyond this circle of ashes; but you are too tired to go over there to-night, are you not, Enola?”

“How far is it?” asked Enola. “I am tired, but if there be a chance of seeing this beautiful sight, then we had better accept it, for a delay may mean to lose this pleasure, for the possibilities of that volcano are beyond reckoning.”

“It is about three miles due north of here, as you would say,” said Onrai, “and if you wish to go we will find elephants plenty to carry all of us.”

“But we will have no moonlight to enhance the beauty of the brilliants,” said Enola.

“No,” said Onrai, “but we have the light from the volcano, and this may have a grander effect.”

“That is true,” said Enola, “let us go immediately.”

Onrai gave the order, and several elephants were soon standing in front of the terrace, awaiting the pleasure of the party. The other ladies also decided 302to go, not having been out of the villa since their arrival, and the men jumped at the chance, surprised to think that there might be a field of these diamonds still uncovered by the ashes.

The elephants followed a road, or path rather, which led almost due north for a distance of three or four miles. The easy motion of the elephants had most of the tired party asleep before the point was reached, and they were awakened from their sleep when the elephants stopped. They were entirely unprepared for the beautiful sight which met their gaze. As far as they could see to the north, the ground was strewn with brilliant sparks of light, looking up from its black surface, like bright eyes from a dusky face. The red glare of the volcano made the scene all the more beautiful, in bringing out so many varied lights from the diamonds.

“How far are we from the volcano?” asked Mr. Graham.

“Only about a mile farther from it than we are when at the villa, I should judge,” said Mr. Bruce.

“And is the land here as barren as it is at the villa,” asked Mrs. Graham, of Onrai, as he came up.

“Quite,” answered Onrai, “and the field which you see here is but a continuation of the field directly back of the villa. We were just too late, or we might have had this scene closer at hand.”

“It is indeed too bad,” said Mr. Graham, “but it has lost none of its beauty by having the volcano’s light thrown on it.”

Mr. Bruce here stooped and picked up one of the twinkling stars; it was about the size of a hen’s egg and almost the same shape; rough on all sides but 303one, this being polished to a brightness which was hard to account for.

“Can you account for this smooth side,” asked Mr. Graham, as he walked up to Mr. Bruce with another diamond very much like the one he had picked up.

“I have been trying to solve the riddle,” replied Mr. Bruce, “and can only offer one solution of the mystery. These stones probably have been thrown from the bowels of the earth by the last eruption of the volcano. How many years, or thousands of years ago this has been, we cannot say, but since that time a part of these diamonds have been exposed to the storms and all kinds of weather. These have gradually polished the stones until they have reached this state of smoothness. You will notice that the polished side is somewhat flatter than the others, and as this side is always turned upward, I think these things but emphasize my theory.”

“I can only interpose one objection to your theory,” said Mr. Graham, “and that is, that diamonds are so hard that it is a question as to whether the wear of the elements would affect them at all.”

“The dropping of water for long has washed away great cliffs, has bored holes in monstrous rocks, and why should diamonds alone be proof against this influence?” argued Mr. Bruce.

“I do not say that they are,” replied Mr. Graham, “and I am willing to accept your explanation for the want of a better one.”

“They are diamonds, I think, without a doubt,” said Mr. Bruce.

“If they are not,” said Mr. Graham, “then we have discovered a jewel, the brilliancy of which is superior 304to that of diamonds, and there lies about us fortunes,—thousands of fortunes.”

“But fortunes which will never benefit the civilized peoples,” said Mr. Bruce.

“Probably not,” said Mr. Graham, “unless it be ourselves, for I shall surely not leave here without a generous supply of these beautiful gems,” and he and Mr. Bruce proceeded to each gather a bag full of the precious stones, the ladies doing likewise.

At this point Onrai came up and Mr. Bruce asked: “Onrai, do you not use these stones for aught else than for the sling-shots, and ornaments, and decorations?”

“Yes,” answered Onrai. “We find here a peculiar brilliant, which the direct participants in the ceremonies of the Day of Resis wear as an emblem,” and the King here remounted, and the remainder of the party doing so, they started toward the villa in silence, our friends thinking what fortunes they carried in the little bags at their waists, and what immense sensations they would create when these stones were brought before the world.

Two weeks had now elapsed since the night of the visit to the field of diamonds, and our friends were still at the villa near the volcano. This had remained about as active as it had on the night in mention, and our friends had stayed on to see the development of the eruption.

At times the earth would tremble slightly, and at such times the volcano would always become more active. The fall of ashes had become much less in this part of the surrounding country, but this was due to the wind 305which had blown steadily from the northeast, carrying the cloud of smoke over the country beyond the cliff.

Onrai was daily expecting the arrival of his army of subjects to perform his bidding.

At the end of two weeks, after an exciting day hunting the jungles of this strange new land, the party one day approached the villa, and saw encamped about it thousands of men, elephants and zebras.

Yes, there were thousands of these. The great field on the opposite side of the avenue was completely filled with them and their animals. Tents of beautiful colors spread over the plain, their peculiar shape suggesting scenes of the Orient. These tents were large and roomy, one side being half turned back so as to admit plenty of air; the floor was covered with soft, skin rugs, and in the centre was a small, round table of wood, on which was resting a lamp.

As our friends approached, the scene was so strange and novel, they thought they had never before seen anything quite so interesting. The glare of the volcano half lighted the level plain giving a reddish glow to everything within its rays, and the lights inside the tents throwing out the varied colors of the beautiful cloth, made these tents look like huge, Japanese lanterns. The ashes had been removed from the floor of each tent and piled up at one side, thus 306giving a clean floor for the rugs and small mattresses which were used for sleeping on.

As our party came up the whole body of men, who had been informed of the King’s approach, drew up in front of the camp in a line along the avenue, and waited for him to say something to them.

“My men,” said the King, “you are called here on a mission which had never before fallen to the lot of Onians. A great storm has visited On and has left as a legacy of its mighty strength, a great crack in the wall which surrounds our world. This must not remain so, for it is meant that we should be guarded by the wall, and consequently we must close up the trench. It will be a mighty undertaking, the great wall about the hunting reserve being nothing in comparison to it. It will require a great length of time to do this work and you who have come to do this, will have to remain here at the same work until it is finished, as it will be impossible to go from here each day and take up other duties. We are a great distance from the city, and it will not be possible for you to return frequently, but this you shall do as often as you decide upon among yourselves. To-morrow we will move to the pit where the great work is to be done, and after finishing all preliminary arrangements we will commence at once.

“This is to protect our good country and I know the work will be done well and quickly. Until to-morrow, then, I will bid you farewell.”

The men bowed in their stately way and the King and his party moved on to the villa.

The volcano seemed to be especially active to-night, the smoke not being as black, but more steam seemed 307to be mixed with it. The fires, too, seemed to be very active, for the glare would be very bright at times and illuminate the entire heavens, and then dying until scarcely a ray of light could be seen. And several times during the evening a low rumbling was heard, and the earth trembled slightly; then the volcano would throw forth an immense shower of hot ashes, rocks and stones and make the hissing noise, reaching over this great distance to the party at the villa, who were on the terrace watching the scene which was ever changing and ever interesting.

“It is more fitful to-night than ever,” said Mr. Bruce, to Mr. Graham.

“Yes,” said Mr. Graham, “and I think we are foolish in staying so close to this seething mass of lava, rock and ashes which may overflow its bounds and engulf us at any moment.”

“But we are far enough away to escape if we should be threatened,” said Mr. Bruce.

“So the Pompeiians and even those of Herculaneum thought, as they laughed and jested on, while old Vesuvius was preparing to bury them,” said Mr. Graham.

“Then you think we had better leave this place?” asked Mr. Bruce, convinced himself that they were playing with fire by remaining here.

“I do most assuredly,” replied Mr. Graham, “but I hate to do so, for this sight is grand and one which we may never see again.”

“Would it not be well to conduct the ladies to some villa at a safe distance and then return and see the thing out. I confess it has a strange fascination for 308me, and I would like to see the grand climax,” said Mr. Bruce.

“That may be a long time coming,” said Mr. Graham, “for these things are very uncertain.”

“That is true,” said Mr. Bruce, “but I have a strange premonition or something, whatever you might call it, that this grand finale will come very soon.”

“If it does,” said Mr. Graham, “and catches us here we are doomed.”

Onrai and Enola then came up and turning to the King, Mr. Bruce said: “Aren’t you a little hasty in sending your men to work on that dreadful volcano?”

“I may be,” said Onrai, “but I have taken your advice in the matter.”

“I did give you such advice,” said Mr. Bruce, “but I did not think at the time that the volcano would assume such a lively attitude. You may be interested in knowing, Onrai, that that great seething mass of ashes and melted rock, may overflow its confines at any time and destroy every man in this party, if he were near enough to it.”

As Mr. Bruce finished speaking, an unusually severe shock was felt, and great showers of red-hot coals were driven high into the air, and then, falling back into the crater, all was dark for a moment, after which the volcano assumed the same appearance as it had ever in its quieter moments, for the last twenty-four hours.

“I do not think it is advisable to send the men to the mountain just yet,” said Mr. Bruce. “We will want them.”

The party remained on the terrace until far into the night, witnessing the weird sight. The volcano might 309be said to be in a state of eruption now, but not a violent state of eruption.

“It is certainly throwing off enough matter to be considered in a state of eruption,” said Mr. Graham, as he and Mr. Bruce were about to retire for the night. “But if it grows no worse than this, we are safe.”

“But it will get worse,” said Mr. Bruce.

But, notwithstanding this prediction, on the following morning when the party arose and looked at the volcano, the first thing that had been their wont to do ever since being here, they were surprised to see only a thin column of smoke rising from the volcano. The black cloud had entirely disappeared and a vaporous volume now rising might be taken for that coming from a camp fire, so small and insignificant was it. Mr. Graham and Mr. Bruce looked in astonishment at this new freak in the rather prolific volcano, and were unable to offer any explanations.

“It is beyond explaining, I think,” said Mr. Graham, after the two had stood for a long time contemplating the now almost lifeless volcano.

“It is more than I expected, at any rate,” said Mr. Bruce, a little slowly, as he remembered his last words of the night before.

“You were not alone in your belief of yesterday,” said Mr. Graham, “for we all expected to see a mighty eruption.”

“It is better as it is, probably,” said Mr. Bruce, “but I am disappointed. If it remains as tranquil as this another twenty-four hours, I shall make another visit to its crater and see if it is really as quiet as it looks.”

“And I will go with you,” said Mr. Graham.

310So the day wore on and night came and went and another day broke fresh, beautiful and sunshiny, and the volcano was as quiet as on the morning previous.

“What do you think of the volcano, to-day?” asked Onrai of Mr. Bruce. “Will it be advisable for me to start the men to work?”

“I think you can send them to the volcano to-day with perfect safety,” said Mr. Bruce. “The danger is past, I think, for the present, but may not be for good, for the volcano, now that it has again broken out, may become active frequently.”

“Enough,” said Onrai, “I will get the men in readiness, for they can work but a week at this time, as they will have to return to the city to celebrate the Day of Resis. All are required to be there on that day. During this week they can get well started, and upon their return they can begin where they left off. Would you like to accompany me?”

“With pleasure,” added they all in chorus, and together they started for the camp on the other side of the avenue.

The men had been up for sometime, the morning meal had been eaten and the remains cleared away, and they were now awaiting orders from the King. The party crossed the avenue and immediately upon the word being sent around the camp that the King was with them, all were attention and awaiting orders. One of the men, who seemed to have command, came forward and received orders from the King to get in readiness at once, and proceed to the cliff to begin operations. It took but a moment for the word to be sent flying around the camp, and in an instant, almost, the tents were lowered, rolled up and 311placed upon the backs of the zebras and elephants, and the men in line to start.

“If these men are as practical in their fighting as they are in this kind of work, what an army they would make,” said Harry, who had spent five years in one of the crack regiments of the O. N. G., and thought he understood the art of breaking camp.

“These men could be made regular fighting machines,” said Mr. Bruce. “Did you see how they fought on the nights when the negroes tried to make the attack on the villa? They stood like statues until the hot breath of the negroes were in their faces, and then their arms rose and fell like automatons, and each stroke killed its man. I never saw a cooler piece of business in my life.”

“Their great ability in this direction is to be wasted though, if such an ability can be wasted,” said Harry; “for with the crevice closed again, they will never have a chance to try their powers in this direction against invaders.”

“No,” said Mr. Bruce, “but it is far better as it is.”

The men had now fallen into line, none of them riding, for only the pack animals were to be taken. In a column of tens they started on their march over the bad lands toward the crevice. There were fully five thousand of these, and they made a most imposing sight as they marched in perfect order, each man having slung over his shoulder, his cross-bow, and in his belt, his dagger and ax. These equipments had been brought along for two reasons; they might have to fight off the negroes, and then they had to make hunting tours to get meat for the camp. In perfect step, 312this army of giants moved toward the cliffs. They had gone several miles, when, looming up before them, they saw an immense body of negroes, speared and hatcheted, and ready for the fray.

The leader of the large body stopped short and those in the rear craned their necks to see what had caused the sudden halt; but they could see nothing, for it was only the leaders, who had just reached the top of a slight eminence, who could see the large body of negroes, standing with shields in place and spears in hand as if expecting the Onians. The men looked again and could hardly believe their eyes. No, they could not be mistaken; there they were; an array of black, grinning devils, brandishing their spears, or pounding their shields with them.

Onrai and his friends, who had been riding in the rear, hurried forward when the column stopped, to see what was the matter. It took them sometime to do this, but when they arrived at the head of the column and saw from their high position on the elephants’ backs, the great body of negroes facing them and only half a mile distant, their surprise knew no bounds. The Onians looked at the King and his white companions, as if wondering if they had been led to this point by a lie, to fight these black animals, for none of them realized that these black, shiny-skinned and nude 313beings were human. But why should the King lie to them? They were perfectly willing to come here on any mission for the King, and it was not necessary to get them here by a ruse.

Again that superstitious fear of the whites took possession of them, and their faces began to assume that startled look as if afraid that some unknown calamity was about to overtake them. They kept their eyes on the whites as they advanced and consulted with the King. Why were they talking in such low tones? Why did they not address the men and explain this new mystery? Not a word had passed between the Onians, but the same fear seemed to take possession of them at the same time, and they looked from one to the other and knew that the same thoughts had come to all.

Mr. Bruce looked over the men and noticed that hunted look in their faces, and he knew that immediate action must be taken or they would be lost; that these men, crazed for the moment by a superstitious fear, might turn on them first and, getting them out of the way, turn and flee from the strange enemy.

“Onrai,” said Mr. Bruce, as he rode up hastily beside the King, “Quick, don’t lose a moment, but order the pack animals to the rear. The men are becoming demoralized and need immediate action or all is lost. The old suspicion in regard to us has again taken possession of them and they may turn on us at any moment. It matters little about us, but the negroes must be driven back. Give your orders.”

Onrai turned to the men and he too, saw that dread look on their faces.

“Men,” said he, almost beside himself with fear of the 314consequences if he should lose control of them; “men, yonder horde of black demons are here to take your country, to take your lives, but worse, to take your wives, mothers, brothers and sisters. They are here to destroy our land, to devastate our fields of grain and fruit, to steal and kill our animals, to destroy our beautiful city and the many villas throughout our land. They know no law, they have no religion, they care nothing for the lives of others. They will kill us or drive us from our own land, into a distant world where we will starve and die. Will you not fight for country, home, loved ones and for the right? These demons have come through the crevice which we were this day to commence closing, and they must be driven back. If we do not drive them back, killing as many as is in our power in doing so, then will they force us to travel that path which leads from our old Land of On, and which, when once followed, can never be retraced. Come, Onians, quickly; shall it be those black beasts who shall leave On, or ourselves?”

The men looked at each other in astonishment. They could not realize at first that such a state of affairs could possibly exist, as there being the remotest possibility of their being driven from this land, which was theirs by right of inheritage and possession. The truth began to dawn on them, though, as Onrai continued speaking, and when he had finished, a low rumbling sound was heard, like the first faint sound of the approaching earthquake, but like this it grew in volume, until it broke in a mighty shout, and the men were Onrai’s, to do with as he wished. Only let them drive from the beautiful land of On the hated beasts which faced them, waiting the end of the parley.

315Onrai understood that shout, although he had never heard it before as a shout of consent, he had heard it frequently as one of approbation, when he or others of the land would perform some particularly hard feat in athletics, or show great heroism in the hunt. It simply meant that they were pleased with what he said, and they were anxious to get at the fray.

“I will give you orders at first,” said Onrai, “but you must obey those of my companions when they give them. They have had invaders in their land and have learned to repulse them, and drive them back. Do as they command you and we will be victorious. Are you ready?”

Again that shout.

“Then get the pack animals to the rear quickly.”

Without a word the elephants were driven to the rear, and the men awaited further orders.

“Mr. Bruce,” said Mr. Graham, “we think you are better capable of handling these men and we will act as your subordinates.”

“I accept the commission,” replied Mr. Bruce, “not because I feel myself superior to yourself or Harry, but because some one must act at once. We will divide our men into three battalions and march in line of battle. Harry, you will take the right. Mr. Graham, you will take the left and I will take the centre. If the negroes, as I expect them to do, charge straight for the centre, you will each close in on their flanks; but if you see the centre giving way, rush for that point at once for we must hold the position. Now we will divide our men.”

They divided the men into three battalions and formed them into the line of battle, explaining to them, 316in the meantime, that they must hold fast together, and not allow the negroes to break their line. The men went about the different manœuvres like old soldiers, when they once saw through them.

The line now drew up and Mr. Graham, Mr. Bruce and Harry, each in front of his battalion, mounted on elephants, with Onrai riding next to Mr. Bruce in the centre, they marched slowly toward the negroes. Every man had his cross-bow in position and arrows ready for use. The formidable hatchet and daggers were in the belts handy, and where they could be gotten at the most easily. The negroes’ faces had lost the grin, and the yells had ceased for the moment as they saw the array of giants advancing. They had never before, in all their many wars, stood before such a formidable body of men, and their courage was failing them. But they had a chief, a wild, barbarous fellow, who knew not what fear was, and seeing that cowardly look stealing over the faces of his men, he jumped before them and racing up and down in front of the line, halloed and yelled, pounding his spear on the shield, and in this way worked the men into such a state of bravery, which was only equaled by his own.

Then again facing the army, which was moving silently toward them, he gave a few words of command, and with a yell and a rush, they came tearing toward the Onians.

“Halt!” thundered Mr. Bruce. “Stand fast and do not let them force your line.”

And the black demons came, never stopping until within range, when Mr. Bruce, giving command, a volley of arrows poured into the negroes and nearly the entire front line of these fell. This checked the negroes 317but rallying in a moment they again charged, and before the Onians could raise their bows, the negroes had raised their spears and hurled them at their enemy. The volley made most frightful havoc with the front rank, and the Onians fell back for a moment, for the first time in their lives seeing a body of their men killed in this way. They looked at the dead and wounded, not knowing what to think of this fearful slaughter, and again the strange fear began to creep over them.

“On, men, do not stop!” commanded Onrai, seeing them falter, “or they will kill you all. Don’t you see they have killed your comrades? Avenge them!”

And the men, looking up, and seeing the black demons on them, and fearing the same fate which had met their companions, made a rush, and with the daggers uplifted, on they went at the blacks, meeting them with a crash as they came forward, and hurling them back by their superior weight. Then began a most fearful slaughter. The Onians, remembering the death of their companions, became as Bruce had said they would, regular fighting machines. Even he and his subordinates were swept on by the irresistible ranks from the rear as they pushed their companions forward. Perfect order was kept, however, and those in the front ranks wielded the dagger with fearful force and alacrity. The negroes, overpowered, and almost crazed with fear at the slaughter going on among their people, forgot all about fighting or even defending themselves.

The one great desire to escape these fearful daggers took complete possession of them; they turned on their countrymen who were crowding them forward, 318and using their hatchets, fists or feet, they walked, ran, rolled or crowded over these, trying to get out of reach of those muscular arms which were now as bloody as the knives they wielded, but stained with the blood of the negroes. At last they broke into a run and started for the crevice, which was a good four or five miles distant. The Onians needed no orders now, but rushed wildly after the fleeing negroes. The negroes being light of limb, however, and probably used to such rough fields as this, gained on the Onians and were some distance ahead, when, looking ahead of them they saw another band marching toward them. This proved to be a reinforcement, and the chief of the routed band, after haranguing his tribe for a moment, prevailed on them to turn, and with the reinforcement again give the giants battle.

The flying Onians were again brought to a halt by Mr. Bruce, and formed in regular line of battle. The remaining negroes also formed in line of battle and advanced, as nearly as could be judged, almost in equal numbers to the Onians. Their chief was again running up and down in front of the line crying, and soon had the men worked up into another fiendish frenzy. Mr. Bruce halted his men, determined to wait for the negroes. The negroes came tearing forward until within a few feet of the Onians, when the latter again raised their cross-bows and sent a volley of arrows into the front ranks of the negroes. But the negroes were expecting them now, and turned the arrows aside with their shields, scarcely a dozen having fallen. They did not stop, but kept up the mad rush until within twenty-five feet of the Onians, when they stopped suddenly and their right arms shooting out 319quickly the fearful, sharp, spear-pointed hatchets, flew toward the Onians, and striking the unprotected bodies of the giants, passed clear through them. Then, with a sudden jerk of the wrist, the hatchet was wrenched from the gaping wound, and pulled back to the negro by the leather string which was attached to the handle of the hatchet. Then again would the deadly weapon be hurled, and again buried in the breast of a fresh victim; and again and again, the whole fearful thing being done so quickly that the weapon could scarcely be seen flying through the air. The slaughter was worse than had been that of the negroes by the knives of the Onians. The horribly lacerated bodies were being piled up high on the ground, but the brave Onians still stood perfectly helpless in front of those merciless hatchets.

Mr. Bruce was nonplussed for a moment. This style of warfare was so new to him and so horrible, he could but look and wonder at the horrible ingenuity of the weapons.

“Send a volley of arrows into them,” cried the King, who seemed to come to his senses first.

The men mechanically raised their bows, but before they could spring them, the deadly hatchets struck them full in the chests or bodies, and torn and bleeding, with a hole clean through them, in which an arm could have been shoved, they fell headlong over the bodies of their companions, who had met the same miserable fate. The situation was becoming desperate. Men who had shown such bravery, and who could on equal terms annihilate the army before them, were beginning to quail before that fearful onslaught, and were unconsciously probably, falling 320back. Still that fearful, never-ceasing charge of flying hatchets. Slowly the men fell back, but the movement was becoming quicker each moment. In a few minutes more they would be in a run, and all would be lost.

Mr. Bruce was growing desperate, as he saw this grand army being demoralized by one which was so inferior in every respect. Riding down the line with the huge elephant, which was pierced by the hatchets as he passed before them, he called to the men to take courage and rally once more. Onrai, too, rode before them, and by every word he knew, tried to imbue them with new courage. But he understood how these poor men, who had been kept in ignorance their whole lives, of the existence of other races, and the art of fighting, could not understand why this awful slaughter should be, or who these demons could be who were mowing them down by hundreds. The horrible dread was taking possession of them again, and Onrai and his companions saw this.

“Men of On,” said Onrai, in despair, “these devils will not only kill you and your companions, but they will kill your wives, sisters and brothers; they will throw down your houses, they will destroy the land. Brave men of On, who turn not from the lion, tiger or elephant, do not let these black beasts show themselves the greater. Turn on them, cut them, chop them, beat them, hammer their foul bodies into the earth, slash them until not a piece large enough is left to feed a jackal. On to them.”

Mr. Bruce had given Harry and Mr. Graham orders to close in with their battalions, as soon as Onrai could again encourage the men to advance, and show 321no mercy; to ride into the black ranks with the elephants, and crush them beneath their feet. Accordingly, when Onrai had ceased speaking, and had turned and had himself led the way into the black ranks, the men went with a rush, notwithstanding that hundreds of them dropped in the advance. Harry and Mr. Graham closed in on their flanks, and were slowly surrounding the now emboldened blacks.

Still they plied the frightful weapons, and scores of the Onians were dropping. It was a fearful advance, but the men were sticking to it bravely; but there were great chances against their ever overcoming this hellish tribe, with their fiendish weapons. The Onians were again losing ground, they could not withstand that awful massacre.

But what is this coming up in the rear? The earth trembles as with another earthquake, but there is no rumbling with it now. The men looked back. Ah, yes, it is Sedai mounted on Gip, and with a hundred immense elephants back of him, all being hurried on by their riders. Quickly the elephants come forward, their swinging gait turning their bodies from side to side, the earth trembling with each fall of their huge feet. Straight for the blacks they made the ranks of the Onians breaking away to allow them to pass. The blacks look and see the awful enemy coming straight for them, on which their murderous hatchets could have no effect. They hurled once more the hatchets at the Onians, and pulling these back, dropped them at their sides, and tried by flight to escape the crushing feet of the elephants. But the elephants rushed into their midst, not only killing with their fearful feet but using their trunks and tusks as well, slaying and 322crushing as they went. Now the Onians made a charge, and clutching their daggers in one hand and the hatchets in the other, done as Onrai had told them to do, and hacked and chopped, and cut and beat and pounded the enemy, their faces and arms being covered with the blood, but still showing no mercy; they were for the time merciless brutes. They had fallen on to the flanks of the negroes, and such was their fearful onslaught, and so fast were these hacked and mutilated bodies piled up, that it looked as if the awful carnage would not cease, until every black carcass was heaped up in one fearful mass of reeking and quivering flesh.

But a low, rumbling sound is heard, which grows louder and louder, and comes nearer and nearer. It is another earthquake. The Onians stop for a moment in their awful massacre, and in this one moment the remainder of the black horde turn and make for the crevice. The earth was shaking fearfully though and the men could hardly keep their feet. On they staggered, until the Onians, finally realizing that the blacks were escaping them, made a rush after them. But the earth still trembled and it was suddenly growing dark. What was wrong with the volcano? A huge mass of stones and smoke came forth in a rush in a greater volume than it had at any time before, and great showers of rock and ashes were pouring from its hellish mouth. On the negroes ran, and on the Onians sped after them. The negroes had now reached the crevice, and were fighting for a foothold on the ledge. Some of them were successful, but most of them were forced over the side, falling into the yawning abyss below. The Onians were about to 323dash after them, when a fearful, deafening report was heard, and looking up to the volcano, they saw a mighty mass of molten lava thrown far into the heavens, and then dropping back into the crater, overflow the wall of this, and fall in a great stream into the crevice. Our friends, spellbound, watched the sight, while the immense flow of lava rolled over the sides of the mountain, and into the crevice, filling up that great hole. It was running in a monstrous flow, easily five hundred feet wide, and twenty feet deep, as near as our friends could calculate. It came pouring through the crevice, well up toward the party, and they started back, in alarm; but it gained on them, and to make it worse, a terrible shower of hot ashes and water was pouring down on them. They were blinded and gasping for breath, turned toward the villa. They were being burned and scalded, their feet becoming blistered; they could not see, they could not breathe.

And so they stumbled blindly on, blindly, for they could not open their eyes because of the fearful dust and ashes. The thick cloud of dust and ashes came forth in a mighty avalanche, burying the land and filling the air with its death-dealing particles; making such a darkness as could be felt; a close, suffocating darkness more like the blackness of an unventilated dungeon than the open darkness of night; a darkness which was penetrated only by the mighty light of the 324belching volcano, the light varying with every phase of the eruption; now a lurid glare which gave the dust-covered earth the appearance of a blood-stained floor; again it would change to a blue which would almost equal the soft rays of the moon; then it would die away to a faint green, casting a death-like glow over all.

And the fearful rumbling continued and far down in the bowels of the earth, could be heard that great lake or river of molten rock and ore, rushing to the outlet which would free it; and the earth would tremble with the fearful fight of the mass as it surged and burned and crushed its way through its underground channels. Then again could be heard the hissing and blowing off of the steam as it escaped from the crevice in the crater.

About the fleeing army fell the hot ashes and steam. They had made a wild rush toward the villa when the first shower had struck them, and they were still hurrying as fast as their bleeding feet could carry them. They had covered miles, and this was wonderful when it was considered, that the ashes had fallen almost to the depth of a foot; and each step that they took they would sink into the hot, ragged substance which would burn and blister their feet, protected only by sandals. And their progress would be suddenly checked now and then, by great fragments of rock, having been hurled by the awful power of the volcano, falling directly in their path, perhaps crushing one of the poor Onians beneath its weight. Then in their blindness they would rush into each other, knocking each other down, and burnt and bleeding, and almost smothered by the fearful dust, they could hardly regain 325their feet. But hurry as they would their progress was growing slower each moment and they were not getting out of the fearful shower of dust and ashes. This seemed to grow worse as they advanced, and the survivors, who were still left to suffer on, were fast giving out.

It looked as if they could not possibly survive the terrible struggle, this unequal fight with the forces of the earth’s interior. The atmosphere would clear for a moment, and the lurid glare of the volcano would again light up the scene, giving a momentary hope which would be killed again by a heavier downpour of ashes and dust. Then the struggle would recommence; a silent struggle, for no sound was made by these helpless creatures, as they fought on, gasping for breath, reeling in their weakness, falling now; but putting forth another great effort and standing erect once more they would stumble ahead again and so on, until, strength exhausted, they would fall for the last time, the shower of ashes and dust soon choking their last breath, and burying the burned and bleeding bodies beneath their awful folds. But these Onians were more than ordinary men, they had more vital life in their bodies, they were strong to the last muscle; their every sinew was developed and health and exercise made them powerful, and so they kept up the struggle longer than would our friends had they been on foot. But they had been mounted on great elephants during the battle. They at first mounted them upon leaving the camp in the morning, expecting only to accompany the men to their scene of labor when they would return. So when the negroes were met, and they saw 326that a battle was inevitable, they remained mounted so as to better conduct the fight.

At first it had been suggested that they should ride zebras, but it was decided to take the elephants, as they would stand the hard journey over the bad lands better. And it had been a lucky decision on their part, for now they were saved the fearful fight with that hot shower of ashes, which not only filled the air, making it almost impossible to breathe, but which also made a bed which was nearly impossible to walk over or through, as the bed had grown to such a depth, that it was nothing more than wading, Sedai had been foremost, in the charge of the elephants into the negro band, and had gotten far ahead of his friends, reaching the volcano even before some of the negroes had. When he saw that awful sea of lava pouring over the side of the crevice, he had turned and motioned his comrades to follow, and had made Gip understand that he must travel as he had never traveled before. The intelligent animal seemed to understand, and hurried on, too, by the heat and burning ashes as they fell on his back, he started on a run which would have soon brought them safely to the villa, if the air and road had not been obstructed by the miserable ashes.

But the elephants, all of which had followed Gip, were, too, experiencing the torture of the awful cloud and shower, and they had stumbled many times, over the rocks and in the soft bed which was getting deeper each moment. The elephants had kept close together though, and had in this way, kept trodden a very good path. Our friends could see, during the few intervals when the cloudy atmosphere would break and the light of the volcano penetrate this, the poor Onians 327stumbling along in the darkness and scorching cinders. They had called to them to keep up courage, but it was needless advice to these men, for they would not give up until the last moment.

They had tried to get the elephants to kneel, and take on their backs, as many as they could carry; but the animals, crazed by pain and fear, dashed on, often crushing beneath their feet, those whom their riders would save. And so the elephants rushed on and as the light would break through the awful blackness, the riders could see that the number of poor pedestrians was growing less and less, until at last, none were seen. They had all succumbed to the overpowering cloud of ashes, and their bodies now strewed the ground, which but a few hours before they had passed over, strong in healthful life; and of the five thousand who had started on the march that morning not one was left; all, all had met their fate. Some by the deadly hatchets of the negroes, others by the fearful downpour of hot cinders.

The Land of On had met its first great catastrophe; it had for the first time in his history, experienced some of those adversities, which had so frequently befallen the other countries of the world. But our friends were still alive. Onrai, Mr. Graham, Mr. Bruce, Harry and Sedai, were being borne through the blackness by the elephants. Their throats were parched, even their lungs seemed burning up with the great heated shower of ashes, which they had been compelled to breathe so long. Their eyes were almost swollen shut, their faces and bodies were covered with blisters where the cruel, hot cinders had struck them. Even they, who had not been exposed wholly to the 328storm, and who had been spared the awful struggle of limping through the hot bed of cinders, even they began to despair of ever getting out of this radius of dust and ashes.

And the elephants were now beginning to stumble and sway from side to side, growing weaker and weaker with the terrible exertion, their strength being sapped by the plungings into the ash-bed, which was now beyond their knees. They would rock from side to side striking each other, but, again bracing up, try it once more. The position of our friends was becoming unsafe, as the elephants were liable to fall at any moment and crush them beneath their huge bodies; but it meant sure death to leave their backs, so expecting death to overtake them each moment, either from the burning air which was scorching their very lungs, or beneath the prostrate animals which were now struggling so bravely to save them. They were hurrying on, but where? Only to death. Again there was a fearful rumbling, the very bowels of the earth seeming to be disjointed and ground to fragments. It grew louder and louder; it almost deafened the sounds of hissing steam and ashes which fell around the little group, and the sucking sound caused by the sinking in and pulling out of the feet of the fast-failing animals.

Finally the earth began to shake and the exhausted elephants, unable to withstand this new enemy, fell to their knees and then flat on their sides. The men had strength enough left to jump and save themselves from being crushed, but they were forced nearly to the hips into the ashes, and they could not extricate themselves. Then this was the last, this was the end of the happy sojourn in the Land of On. No, it could 329not be, they must not die here in this miserable way and be buried by the never-ceasing shower; they must struggle on.

“Up,” said Mr. Bruce to his elephant, as the rumbling ceased and the earth again became steady. “Once more, now,” he halloed out as he reached forward and struck the poor beast across the ear with his hook. But the elephant, after making several ineffectual struggles, gave a plaintive cry and let its head drop into the relentless ashes. As in a quicksand, the five men stood perfectly helpless, and their lives fast going out. The elephants had, one by one, given up the struggle, and were now panting and gasping and waiting for the end. They seemed to realize that they were doomed and the plaintive cry would break from their gasping throats, as if asking aid of those whom they had tried to save, but all were powerless. Hope was fast failing them. They could not possibly last much longer, but what mattered it whether they went now, or lived to suffer for a few moments longer. There was no power on earth that could save them now, and they must look death square in the face. It seemed hard surely, to die so near to friends, and life and sunshine, for they knew that this death-dealing shower could not extend many miles unless it be worse than was that other.

They knew that the dear ones were safe in the villa, for, though they were in the radius of the shower, they were sheltered from this, and the flow of lava had not run toward the villa, or they would have seen it. It was some consolation then to know, that if they must die, these dear ones at least were safe. But what will become of them alone in this strange land? They 330would have to entrust themselves wholly to the people, who had once looked upon them with superstitious fear, and who might again, after this dreadful catastrophe, turn on them, and having no longer any one to protect them, or having no defense to offer as they had before, destroy them. It was not pleasant to think thus as the awful ashes continued to pile up around them, burying them alive.

The pain which this thought gave them of possible danger to their loved ones, was worse than the physical tortures which they were now suffering, and they turned and wrenched their bodies in their living graves, in very agony of mind. And Onrai, too, seemed to be suffering more than bodily pain. If his thoughts could have been read, they probably would have told the story of baffled hopes, and of the death of aspirations which the love for Enola had kindled in him. It was harder for him to die thus than for any of the others, for he had been so strong and mighty, and his life was full of such bright hopes, and he had so much to live for, but it was ended. All, all was lost.

But may be not, thought Mr. Bruce, for Gip, who had laid for a moment perfectly quiet, had now begun to again exert his awful strength and was twisting and plunging about, as if to make a place on which he could stand. He accomplished this finally and rose to his feet. He had had a short rest from the fearful struggles of the flight, and he could again commence the fight. Sedai, who was near him, caught the howdah as he rose and was lifted out of the ashes. He then made Gip understand that he was to help the others, and one by one the great elephant, lifted by his trunk, raised them to his back. Then starting 331in the direction, which they had kept since starting on the awful ride, the great beast fought on; they had been moving thus for several moments, when he suddenly stopped and refused to move further. Just then the sky became light for the moment, and a zebra was seen lying in their path, and lying beneath it, the body of Enola.

But what of those who had been left behind? What had been their fate, and how had they spent those dreadful hours, when they could but reasonably expect that their companions, who had left them only that morning alive with hope and health, had met the most miserable death? The morning had been beautiful, and all had gone to see the striking of the tents and breaking of camp, and they had followed the marching army for some distance over the bad lands; but at the earnest request of the men they had at last turned and gone back to the villa. They had noticed the continued inactivity of the volcano and had hoped, woman fashion, that the worst might be over, and their spirits had been, accordingly, bright.

But the long morning hours grew tiresome, and the women became restless, and could find no way to pass the weary time. They spent a while on the terrace, but the garden had lost all its beauty by the shower of ashes. They ate their luncheon mechanically at midday and then tried to sleep awhile, but made a sad 332failure of this, and at last, not knowing what else to do, they had ordered their zebras and started for a ride down the avenue. It was not long before they were well beyond the radius of falling ashes, and it was a great relief to them to see green fields and shady trees again, and the beautiful smooth pavement of the avenue. They rode for a long distance, forgetting, in their pleasure, that they were getting a long way from the villa. But the sun was so bright here, and everything so fresh and green, and the air so pure, they dreaded returning to the rather doubtful atmosphere of the villa.

But they must turn now, for the sun was getting well down toward the west, and what is that? The question was easily answered, for they had become quite accustomed to the rumbling sound of the earthquakes. Still it startled them, and they urged their beasts forward. The sound grew nearer, and then the earth began to shake so violently the zebras tottered and almost fell. And then another awful shock came, and the zebras became frightened, and, taking the soft bit between their teeth, they tore down the avenue. Then the awful explosion came like the report of a thousand cannons, and the riders saw the awful spout of dust, ashes, steam, smoke, pouring from the volcano, and almost immediately afterward they were engulfed in that fearful black atmosphere which choked and blinded them.

The zebras stopped so suddenly that their riders almost lost their seats, but by kind words, and by gently patting them, they were persuaded to proceed carefully. Here the avenue was plain to see, and there was little fear of losing the way, but the ashes were 333falling with such force and such volume, the roadway was fast becoming blocked. Still the zebras were light-footed, and their riders had hopes of their being able to reach the villa. But the borders of the avenue continued in that unbroken line of trees, and the surrounding country was so much alike, it was hard to tell just where to turn off to the villa. The thought had occurred to Enola that they might be carried by this, and on and on until the beasts, overcome, would sink to the ground, leaving the riders to their fate. It was impossible to see anything, excepting now and then, when the light of the volcano would break through the awful gloom for a moment. Even then the air was so thick with the cinders and dust, they could not penetrate it more than a few feet.

And so they plodded along, each moment the gloom becoming more dense and the avenue pavement harder for the zebras to traverse. They must certainly have reached the villa by this time, but for all they could see, they might still be ten miles from it. They could not place any dependence on the zebras, for they were too badly scared to act rationally; besides their senses of smell and sight were entirely lost in this stifling atmosphere.

The situation was becoming desperate, but there was positively nothing to do but ride on with the forlorn hope of riding beyond the circle of the shower. But if they could not reach the villa, why not turn and ride back to the green fields and open country again? Aye, why not. The thought had occurred to Enola, and the more she thought of it, the more feasible the idea seemed to be, and at last it occurred to her that this might be their only chance of escape. 334Waiting until the volcano’s light broke through the gloom for a moment, she motioned to her friends to follow her, and after a moment she managed to turn her zebra’s head, and when this was done, and they had gotten started in the opposite direction, they seemed to have the wind at their backs and they could ride with a little more comfort. But the darkness was intense now, for night had closed in, and if possible, had added to the Egyptian blackness. The riders could only see each other at very infrequent intervals when the volcano’s light would, for a moment, melt the gloom and give the almost exhausted women a moment’s respite.

They were moving very slowly, the ashes getting so thick over the avenue pavements, that the zebras found it almost impossible to further beat their way through it. But one of the infrequent light spells now allowed them to look about again, and Enola saw that they had left the avenue. On an ordinary dark night this could have been easily detected by the sound of the zebras’ hoofs, but now the grass sod and the hard onyx pavement were the same; they were both lost beneath the carpet of ashes. This new aspect of things did not please our friends. They were being overcome very rapidly by the thick atmosphere; it was killing them by inches. They could scarcely breathe any longer; every breath was like the stab of a stiletto, the sharp particles of the ashes had penetrated and cut the soft membranes of the throat and lungs, and then that steamy air, upon touching the raw flesh would cause the most acute pain. Their hands and faces were blistered, and their eyes seemed to be burning out of their heads.

335Enola and Nellie stood it better than Mrs. Graham. She had almost fallen from her zebra several times, and Nellie and Enola were now trying to ride on either side of her, to save her from falling, if possible. But it was growing worse each moment, and hope was nearly dead. They were staggering along in the darkness, the zebras every now and then stumbling up against a tree, and nearly rubbing their riders from their backs. They felt satisfied that they had lost their way, and if this was so, and they could not again reach the avenue, then, indeed, might all hope be abandoned. Black as Erebus, the air was not only laden with the death-dealing ashes, but was so hot and humid, that no living thing could withstand it for any length of time.

It seemed an age since that first awful rumbling of the earth, and this fearful darkness overtook them; it seemed that night ought to have given way to day and the day to night again. So acute was their pain, so fearful the darkness, so quiet all else but the rumbling of the earth and the hissing of the steam in the volcano, that time itself seemed to stand still waiting for the hellish scene to pass. In such a moment one could imagine that a lifetime had been passed, and if youthful features should be changed to those of old age in such a night of suffering, it would not seem strange, for in those few short hours more suffering is crowded than in many years of ordinary life, and when it is all over with, one cannot realize that this could be in such a short space of time. Then these women were fast losing consciousness; their brains were in a whirl; they could no longer think; they had almost grown insensible to their pain; their eyes no longer 336tried to penetrate the darkness about them; they no longer tried to guide the zebras as they had done heretofore, notwithstanding that the zebras were more likely to know the right path than themselves. They still clung to the mane and rein and tried hard to retain their seats on the backs of the zebras, but they did this mechanically and not because they were guided by any spirit of self-protection.

They had now became separated too, and each of the zebra was trying to pick out a path for itself. But it was dreadful, for the zebras were now also wandering on from a mere sense of habit, and not because they had any longer any hope of escaping. Their heads dropped until their noses almost touched the ash-covered ground. Their eyelids seemed frozen in a cramped position over the eyes and the balls of their eyes looked out like pieces of glass which had been rubbed with sand paper. There was no longer any sight in those eyes; there could not be after being exposed to the beating ashes and dust as long as they had. The legs of the poor beasts were raw to the knees, but still they plodded through the ashes which must have set them crazy with pain, if they too had not lost all sense of pain.

Such dreadful sufferings could not help but make one helplessly mad. It was a hell, an awful, reason-destroying hell, but a merciful hell in a way, for although it lacerated the poor, tortured bodies of its victims, it at the same time destroyed all consciousness of their suffering. So like poor, undying spirits in a helpless state of painless suffering, if such a thing could be, the zebras wandered on, bearing the almost lifeless bodies of the women.

337Suddenly Enola half roused herself and opened her swollen eyes. Only for a moment, however, for they soon closed again and she lapsed into that comatose state, and then had dropped to the zebra’s neck as before. But again the eyes half opened and this time she showed signs of returning consciousness.

But the eyes closed again for a moment and then she starts as if having been struck; no, she had not been mistaken, there it was, a light burning through the darkness. Could she call for help? Her throat was dry and parched; she had not tried to make a sound in hours, days it seemed to her, but she must try now; so opening the baked lips she made an effort, but it was useless. She could not articulate. But the zebras were moving slowly toward the light and they might see her yet. It must be the villa and they were safe at last. She turned to point the light out to her companions, but they are gone. She looked again, for just at that moment, the flash of light broke through the gloom. But no, her companions were no longer with her. Had they found their way to a place of safety and had she been lost in the darkness, or had they been lost? She tried to remember when she last saw them, but she could not. She had a faint recollection of their having all been together sometime during this awful night, or, was it night? She could not say. It might have been years ago, so indefinite had grown the flight of time. She again turned toward the light; yes, it was still there, and then she tried to turn the head of her zebra towards the spot. Her arm was stiff and she could hardly move, but she managed to slap the zebra on the side of the neck, but he 338did not turn. He still wandered on in that aimless way, seeming to heed nothing.

Oh, this was fearful. She tried again and again but the only response the poor beast made, was to drop dead in his tracks. She felt him giving way under her and made a last effort to save herself, but too late; the beast caught her limbs as he fell and half burying her in the soft ashes, held her fast. She tried hard and wrenched the tender limbs until torn and bleeding, but to no purpose; she was held as secure as if tied to the side of the beast. She was too exhausted to make much of an effort, and the little she had made, had caused her to lose consciousness for the moment.

The moments flew by but all unknown to the poor, insensible girl and death seemed inevitable. There was no hope now, there could be none, unless it came from where that mocking light still gleamed through the darkness. But it would have been as helpful to the dying woman had it been ten miles away. It was better then, that the poor wanderer should never again wake to consciousness, for she would be saved the helpless suffering caused by knowing that she was near help and yet was beyond it.

The ashes still fell in torrents, the humid air was growing more intolerable each moment with the hot steam and dust, and the blackness had grown more intense. Yes, it could be felt, and here in the midst of all its hellish night, lay Enola dying.

But no, what is that huge mass which has almost tramped on her, but which stops just in time? It is Gip.

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347

The elephants were sadly emaciated, for they had now been seven days without food or water. Their great bodies looked gaunt, and their little eyes were sunken well into the head. Their bodies were nearly half covered with the ashes, and together with this and the fact that they were so weak they could only move their heads, turning them from side to side, showing that there was still life in their huge bodies.

359“Yes, if we could get these elephants to the villa,” said Onrai, “they could well take the place of those which were killed.”

“But even if you were to get them there, they would, with returning strength, grow as wild as ever, would they not?” said Mr. Bruce.

“No,” said Onrai, “hunger always tames an elephant, and if he is taken while hungry, and given food and placed with tame elephants, he is generally as docile and manageable as any of those which have been in captivity all their lives.”

“This is strange,” said Mr. Graham.

“Yes,” replied the King, “it is, but nevertheless true. Elephants do not seem to have the fear of human beings that many other animals have, but seem rather to like the association of man. I have seen wild elephants follow us from out of the jungle, right down to the gate of the Hunting Reserve, as gentle and seemingly as tame as the ones we were riding, and I have no doubt that if we had let them through the gate, they would have followed us to the city, and would have been just as happy and contented with their tame companions as they had been running wild in the jungle.”

“It seems a pity, then, that we have to leave them here,” said Mr. Bruce, “when with help they might be gotten to where they could be nursed back to life.”

“It would take considerable time and trouble, though, to do so,” said Onrai. “Still, if we had men with us they could bring them food and water and in this way put life enough into them to get them to the villa. But come, the sun is nearly hidden behind the cliffs, and we have a long ride before us.”

360As if the dying elephants knew that their would-be rescuers were leaving them, they turned their heads and watched them as they rode away, the most pitiful expression coming into their little black eyes. There were easily a hundred of them, and they made a great black spot on the plain with their bodies, which were only half covered.

Our friends now hurried toward the villa, and after a ride of two hours, again pulled up in front of the terrace. They had entered the villa, and were just about to seat themselves to the evening meal, when the tramping of many zebras’ hoofs were heard, and our friends, going to the front entrance, looked toward the now covered avenue, and there saw in the half light, a band of not less than two hundred mounted men. When they saw the lights of the villa they turned and came toward it. Silently they picked their way between the trees and up to the terrace, where, recognizing the King, they gave a loud shout and then began a chant, which Onrai explained to his companions, was a chant of praise. After the chant was finished, the King stood on the terrace steps and said:

“Onians, my countrymen, the sight of your faces, coming so unexpectedly, pleases me greatly and draws from my heart some of the sadness which the events of the past short while have caused. Your presence makes me feel that if some of our dearly beloved men have gone, there yet remains their sons and brothers and fathers, who will make this fair Land of On yet the same as we knew it before the fearful eruption. We have met with a terrible loss, but our men died in a good cause, and died bravely.”

361“We do not understand you, oh King,” said one of the foremost.

“Ah, I forgot,” said Onrai, “but enough to-night. Find quarters for yourselves and beasts, and on the morrow I will explain further. Prepare yourselves, however, for sad news, for such you will hear.”

The men turned from the terrace and the King and his guests again went into the villa. Onrai seemed much depressed, for how was he going to tell these men that their fathers, sons and brothers had perished by the hands of a band of negroes, and the terrible shower of ashes. They would not understand either unless they could realize that this new covering of ashes had overtaken their friends unexpectedly, and had buried them. But then it would be hard to make them understand the eruption and what caused it. They were too far away at the time to see or know anything of the awful overflow, unless it be a black cloud which they could possibly see. They may have felt the shocks of earthquake, but even this they might not have experienced. Then they could know nothing of how their friends had met death, nor could they understand the means by which they had fallen.

So the King had a hard task before him in the morning and it worried him fearfully. Enola had seen his downcast countenance, and guessing the cause, had followed him out on the terrace. Taking hold of his arm, as he paced up and down, she said:

“Onrai, do not give up at the outstart. This is a sad task which you have to perform. But it is only the first one of a number like ones which will come later, when the mothers and sisters and wives of the unfortunates will come to gain information 362from you, when you will be in the city. So if you give up now what will you do after awhile? Be strong and make these men understand as well as possible, the real condition of things. Try and impress them with the greatness of the deed which made such heroes of their dead comrades, and of the fearful consequences if they had failed to act so nobly and bravely. Say not too much about the eruption, but leave the impression that it buried and burned the hated negroes who had invaded this country, and had slaughtered so many of their countrymen. Impress them with the fact that all of these brave Onians were killed in defence of their country and their loved ones, and then, if you can make them understand why these negroes were here, and how they entered the country, they will better appreciate the great sacrifice of life which has been made for them. Let them still retain their old belief that theirs is the only world on this sphere, letting them think that the negroes came from another world far away. They can better understand the latter for they have seen us and believe that we came from another planet, and this too, would leave the old belief unshaken, and would insure less unhappiness, than if their life-long teachings were destroyed.”

“You are right,” said Onrai, “as you always are, and I will act upon your advice. But Enola, have you thought of the time when we will be married? We are about to return to the city and the word has gone forth that on the Day of Resis you will marry me.”

“The day has then been fixed?” questioned Enola. “I had not learned this.”

“Yes, it has been decided upon,” said the King. “On that great day when so many of my countrymen 363will meet, with joy and loud songs of praise, on the evening of that day, after the ceremonies have been performed, you will become my wife.”

Enola had expected that Onrai would make some such announcement soon, but she had no idea that he would name such an early day, for, as she understood it, the Day of Resis, was but a short time away.

“When is the Day of Resis?” asked Enola.

“Four weeks from to-day, according to your calendar,” said Onrai.

“Is not that very soon, Onrai?” asked Enola.

“Too soon?” exclaimed Onrai; “how can you ask such a question, Enola? If you love me as I do you, you would wish, as do I, that the day was to-morrow. The time to me seems a long way off. Our days will not be too many after our marriage, and it is well we should add to these as many as possible. And again, my people have so decreed that we should be married on that day.”

“What are the ceremonies of the great Day of Resis?” again questioned Enola.

“Hush, Enola, you must not ask me. The secret of the day is never divulged, or even spoken of among those who know its secrets. But once seen, the secret is then yours, and you will then know the meaning of the Day of Resis. It is a glorious day, a day of great rejoicing and happiness. Not one on that great day but feels a wonderful happiness, even those who are not direct participants in its great ceremonies. It falls to the lot of all, though, to be principal participants in the proceedings of the day, one day of his life, and this is the greatest day of all his or her days. 364Their joy is supreme, and their happiness knows no bounds.”

“It must, indeed, be a great day,” said Enola, “and the people have chosen this day to be my wedding day. How they must love their King!”

“Yes, the King and the fair stranger whom he is to marry,” said Onrai.

“I doubt the latter,” said Enola, “for they were too ready to kill both her and her friends when they thought that she had been the cause of the storm.”

“Don’t, don’t, Enola, mention that fearful time. I would blot it from my mind. It was the one time in my life that I lost confidence in my people, and the one time when I would have turned against them. I feel, though, that they have now bitterly regretted their action, for they have seen the folly of it.”

“Will we be married in the Temple?” asked Enola, wishing to take Onrai’s mind from such a painful subject as the one she had mentioned.

“Yes,” said Onrai; “in the Temple, surrounded by my people, and the ceremony will be grand in the extreme. I am, I suppose, the first King who has ever been married, but this, of course, I cannot say positively, for we know nothing of the reign or history of past Kings. Still, the high priest has said as much. Our marriage ceremonies are mostly of a religious nature, and are accompanied by much song and music. Our marriage garments are made of pure cloth of gold, and those who will be with us, will be robed much in the same way.”

“Shall we live in the Temple?” again asked Enola.

“Yes,” said Onrai; “but in apartments which you have never seen; apartments grand beyond description. 365These apartments were made by the builder of the Temple, for the King in whose reign an unusual event would occur. So says the high priest; and he further says that my marriage is an event never before heard of, and that it must have been this which the founder of the country foresaw when he had these chambers planned and held for this purpose. None but the high priest has ever entered them, but they must be sublime from what he has told me of them.”

“And what will be my life as the King’s wife?” questioned Enola.

“Your life will be much the same as it is now, but you will be called upon to take a part in all duties which belong to the King. In the ceremonies of the Day of Resis, for instance, you will stand near me and perform the same duties which alone belong to myself, and in this way, sharing the duties of my office, we go down to our death, happy, knowing no sorrows or troubles and assured of that great happiness in the eternity beyond.”

“And do we then go together?” asked Enola, as she remembered the mode of death of some of the women of India.

“Yes; it is so decreed,” said Onrai.

The horror of this made Enola faint for a moment, and she made a resolve to leave this land as soon as possible. Until beyond the rocky cliffs again, all happiness for her had flown.

366

376

“The Day of Resis” had come, and long before the sun had shed its golden beams on the Temple of On, the people were astir. The tramp of many zebras and the rumbling of chariots could be faintly heard by the adventurers as they lay tossing on their couches, the night having brought them but little rest. They listened with bated breath to the sounds as they floated through the wide arches of the Temple, and wondered what the day would bring forth. That it would be fateful, was certain, for if they did not effect their escape, Enola would become the unwilling bride of the King of On; and what would be the subsequent events? Would they longer be held prisoners, or, would they be allowed to go and come as they saw fit?

But if they failed to get away before the eventful ceremony should take place, would there be any further inducement to leave this beautiful country? Would not Enola be the wife of Onrai, and would not the bonds be binding, having been welded by the laws of this country? Would she not still be the wife of Onrai, even if she should go back to civilization, and would it not be better for her to remain here with the 386man whom she had been forced to marry? It was a difficult question to answer, and puzzled and troubled, the small party of adventurers rose, and after the morning bath, the last, they hoped, in the Temple, they repaired to the dining hall.

“The night has been a disappointing one in every respect,” said Mr. Graham, as he took a seat by the side of Enola, “for I had hoped that after the suspense and failure of the early evening, we would at least forget for awhile in our sleep. But I see in the haggard faces about me traces of unrest, and I know that we have all spent the night in worrying and in wondering as to what the day would bring forth.”

“The night has been a fearful one to me,” said Enola; “but it has seemed all too short, for I could remember only that with its darkness went all hope of mine.”

“Come, Enola,” said Mr. Bruce, “do not give up entirely. Remember that it is on the eve of this day that you are to marry the King, and there are many hours left us yet in which to escape.”

“No,” said Enola, “I feel that all hope is gone. We will be the central figures of attraction to-day and all eyes will be upon us, thus making it an impossibility to escape.”

“I differ with you,” said Mr. Bruce, “for we have learned that this is the greatest of all days with these people, and the ceremonies of the day may call attention from us, thus giving us a chance to get away. Listen, even now, the avenues seem crowded with the chariots and zebras, and the sandaled feet of the multitude can be heard shuffling over the hard pavement. The day for me has the greatest interest, for I long to 387fathom its mysteries, but not at the expense of your happiness, Enola, and I will watch every chance, as will all of us, to get you away from the hateful ceremony.”

“I had forgotten, in our trouble,” said Mr. Graham, “that there were secrets to be learned to-day. What can they be?”

“They must be of an exceedingly happy nature,” said Harry, “for I have seen the faces of those who have spoken of the day, light up as if with pleasurable anticipation.”

“Yes,” said Mr. Bruce, “Onrai has said that the day was the happiest one in the lives of the people, and that must mean a great deal, for these people are always happy, or, have been so until the news reached them of the great battle and eruption. Hark,” and as Mr. Bruce ceased speaking, a song rose on the morning air so exquisitely beautiful and grand, that our friends almost held their breath, for fear of losing one note of its delightful harmony. It rose and fell one moment loud and powerful, ringing through the entrance and wide hall of the Temple, and the next dying away almost to a whisper.

“Ah,” said Enola, as the voices ceased, “it is beautiful. Oh, why could not Onrai have left me in peace, so that we might enjoy even yet awhile the delights of this grand country and people.”

“It is indeed too bad,” said Mr. Bruce. “But has Sedai been here this morning?”

“No,” said Mr. Graham, “but it is time that he was. Perhaps he is afraid of losing a chance for escape by coming to us,” but the curtain moves at this moment and Sedai enters.

388“We were just speaking of you, Sedai,” said Mr. Bruce. “What are the chances this morning?”

“Better, I think,” replied Sedai. “I was sitting near the stables last night waiting for the watch to sleep, when Ephmer came to me and said:

“‘Listen, Sedai, your friends of the far-away country would escape, for the fair one whom Onrai the King, would marry, can see no happiness in becoming his wife. To-morrow is the Day of Resis, and on that day is the first King of On to marry. But you would escape. I have seen the look of fear and suspense on the faces of your friends since they have again arrived in the city, and I have seen you here day and night watching closely the movements of the men who have been placed to watch your friends. Now listen. I have longed to leave my native land and go to that far-away country, of which I have heard you speak, and I will help you escape. I only ask that you take me with you, and also my friend Shal, of the underground world. I cannot promise to effect your escape, but I will do all in my power to help you. Will you accept my help?’

“I looked at the Onian for a moment, but did not answer, for fear that if I should admit that we were trying to escape, he would report the matter to the King.

“Don’t mistrust me,” he continued, “and I decided to accept his offer. Have I done right?”

“You have,” said Mr. Bruce, “and if this man can help us, he shall see that great world beyond the cliffs to which he has so longed to go.”

“’Tis well,” said Sedai, “Ephmer will be near you to-day during the ceremonies and will explain all to 389you. I will immediately notify you if an opportunity affords for our escape,” and with this Sedai withdrew.

Onrai was heard outside a moment later, and very shortly he came into the apartment. His face wore a happy smile, as he walked to where Enola was sitting, and taking her hand, said:

“Greeting, Enola. This is the greatest day of my life and the happiest.”

“The day seems strange to me,” said Enola.

“Why strange, Enola,” asked Onrai, his face troubled for the moment.

“Because I cannot realize that in this strange land, so far from our own, and where the customs are so very different, I have found the one whom I am to marry, and that on this day I am to become his wife. I cannot accustom myself to the idea, that is all,” and Enola tried to smile, knowing that she must still keep up the miserable farce in order to avert suspicion.

“The strangeness will wear off with the day’s ceremonies,” said Onrai, “and now the ceremonies are about to commence, and places on the terrace are awaiting you.”

“Then we are about to learn the day’s mysteries,” said Mr. Bruce.

“They are mysteries to you only; to my people, the day’s ceremonies are well-known,” said the King.

“Then why are they never mentioned?” questioned Mr. Bruce.

“Because they are too sacred,” answered Onrai, solemnly, as he left the apartment.

“Ah, they are mysteries still,” said Mr. Bruce, after the King had left. “Not even at this late hour will he explain them to us, but leaves us to learn them ourselves, 390and that we are willing to do. Let us go to the terrace and there learn what it is which makes the day one of mystery.”

They all now left the dining hall and stepped into the large court. Here attendants were awaiting to conduct them to their seats. Ephmer, who was one of these, stepped up as they approached, and asked:

“Has Sedai spoken?”

“Yes,” said Mr. Bruce, “and we have consented. You will not fail us?”

“I shall do all in my power,” and saying this, Ephmer led the way to the terrace where they found seats awaiting them.

The scene which now met the gaze of the adventurers was strange, yet grand. The populace thronged the court of the Temple, the garden, the avenues leading to it, and even the tops of the villas were crowded with the happy-looking people. Before many of the villas could be seen a square pile of wood about ten feet high. These had been placed during the night, and our friends could but wonder what part these played in the ceremonies of the day. Turning to Ephmer, Mr. Bruce asked:

“Why are these piles of wood placed before some villas and not before others?”

“In these villas with the biers before them, live the principal participants in to-day’s ceremonies,” answered Ephmer.

“What did you call these? Biers?” asked Mr. Bruce, with a puzzled look on his face.

“Yes,” answered Ephmer, “for on these are burned the bodies of those who have this day met their Day of Resis.”

391“Burned? Day of Resis? Why, what do you mean, man?” asked Mr. Bruce, and they all looked at the man with troubled faces.

“Only this,” said Ephmer, “that all Onians who have reached the age of sixty-five, since this day last year, will to-day be put to death by the hand of the King.”

Our friends looked at the Onian, as he said this, with fearful wonderment depicted in their faces. Could it be that the man told the truth? Could this race of enlightened people do this thing?

“But why are these put to death?” asked Mr. Bruce, as soon as he could find his voice.

“Because they have reached that time when old age creeps on; and having reached this age, too, they have earned the reward which is rightfully theirs, by having lived a sinless life,” answered Ephmer.

“But why should you kill a man because he has seen his best days?” asked Mr. Bruce, now interested in spite of himself.

“Because we would leave none but the strong and vigorous to bring children into our world, and, also, because our world would become over-populated if the old were not killed. The same law governs our domestic animals.”

And this, then, was the secret, or one of the secrets of the great height, strength and healthfulness of this people, and it also explained the absence of all aged people in this strange land. Yes, such a law could have but this effect, but at what a cost was the beautiful stature and healthfulness acquired?

“But do not those who are to be killed, object?” asked Mr. Bruce.

392“Never,” answered Ephmer, “it is the happiest day of their lives. Look at them. The ceremonies are about to commence.”

“I cannot stand this,” said Mrs. Graham, and she and Nellie rising, entered the Temple. Enola also arose intending to go to her apartment, but at that moment the King came on to the terrace wearing a long, crimson robe, and seeing Enola about to retire, said to her: “It is important that you witness the scenes of the day, because hereafter, you will have to perform the same duties which I am this day performing.”

“I cannot look on this wholesale murder,” answered Enola, with a shudder.

“It is the law,” replied Onrai, as he moved away. And Enola again sank into her seat. It was fearful, but what could she or the others do? Nothing.

Suddenly the blare of a trumpet sounded over the city, and the vast throng burst forth in a weird chant which rose and fell in great waves of sound, and almost stopped the beating of the heart with its impressive solemnity. Up the long avenue came a procession of men and women, and across the wrist of each was the gold chain and peculiar diamond, which symbolized the bloody ending of the day. A white bag of goat skin was suspended by a silken cord which encircled the wrist just below the gold band. All were in spotless white with golden girdles and fillets of gold about their brows.

The King, in a crimson robe, accompanied by seven priests, took his place in the court and faced the line of the doomed. At the sound of another trumpet the singing ceased. An onyx pedestal was brought from the Temple and placed before the King. On the pedestal was a shallow basin of gold.

393At a given signal the lines of the doomed moved forward, keeping the right foot foremost, and again the chant of the multitude rose higher and higher, growing wilder and wilder, until the front rank of the victims was ranged before the King. He drew from his girdle a glittering dagger, that flashed in the sunlight when he held it aloft, as the doomed men and women thrust out their naked wrists over the golden basin. One swift stroke severed the main artery and the goat-skin bag was instantly drawn up and tied above the wound, scarcely a drop of blood falling into the shallow golden vessel on the pedestal.

Again the flashing dagger was raised in the air as two members of each victim’s family stepped from the throng and assisted the doomed into the chariot which stood waiting. On the faces of the vast throng no horror was depicted, but rather the intent look of serious and solemn interest. Even upon the faces of the victims a beatified look of hopeful expectancy, was the only evidence that they were not to mingle again with their fellow-men, in the duties and pleasures of the Land of On.

For a time Enola was enabled to keep her face turned away from the actual sight of the massacre, but under the influence of that wonderful music, she at last stole one brief glance at the King as the gleaming knife crossed the wrist of a victim, and from that time until the long procession had passed the pedestal of death, she was held as if by the glittering eyes of a serpent.

As the last man received his death-thrust, the 394King dropped the knife into the basin, and holding aloft both hands, intoned the words of the ceremony which were supposed to justify the deeds of the day, and speed the departing souls into the sublimity of the hereafter. At last Mr. Bruce exclaimed hoarsely:

“It is over!” and he looked up just in time to see Enola fall fainting into Harry’s arms. She was immediately borne to her apartments and was soon revived. As the men left the terrace, there was not a sign to show that the day had been one of dreadful tragedies. No drop of blood, no confusion. Simply the orderly dispersing of the multitude engaged in low-toned conversation.

All now met in Mr. Bruce’s rooms and breathlessly awaited Sedai’s arrival. The news which he would bring from the stables would decide how much or how little of hope they might have, for effecting an escape before Onrai should come.

Suddenly the curtain stirred and Sedai’s face appeared. He beckoned to them to follow, and noiselessly they crossed the starlit terrace and entered the garden. Here they found Ephmer and Shal awaiting them with zebras. Enola was about to mount her zebra when she heard a peculiar cry, and turning she saw the great white body of Gip looming up in the half light and coming toward her.

“Oh, Gip,” she cried, “this is my only regret in leaving On. I cannot take you with me,” and patting the great noble beast, which had saved her life on two different occasions and the lives of her friends, she turned and mounted her zebra and rode away with tears streaming from her eyes, afraid to look back, fearful of the pitiful look on Gip’s face.

395Cautiously they picked their way through the park toward the road to the mountains. Along this road, which was used only for bringing the fodder for the stables, Sedai led them, explaining that it joined the main road leading to the cave a short distance from the city. As soon as they reached the main road they urged on their zebras with all speed, for, turning to look back at the city, they could see torches glittering about rapidly and could hear a confused murmur of sounds which indicated that their escape had been detected. Here and there a steady flame shooting straight into the air, denoted the burning funeral pyres of the day’s victims. Sedai motioned them to stop for a moment, and listening intently, he said:

“We are pursued.”

On they flew again over the hard road, through bits of forest, past the shores of small lakes and over green fields. Far ahead they could see the dark forest on the side of the mountain. Through the gate of the mighty wall they sped, and Sedai dismounted to hastily close and barricade it from the inside. Their pursuers would have to climb the wall, or seek one of the other gates and every moment was precious now. They crossed the bridge and plunged into the woods that intervened between them and the cave. The roar of a lion was heard to the right, but they did not hesitate.

The eastern horizon was growing brighter and brighter, and by the time they had passed the forest, the moon had risen high above the mountains. The rapid gallop of zebras could be heard and looking back, they saw a large body of mounted men struggling at the barricaded gate. Finding the gate impassable, 396they formed a pyramid and in this way the men reached the top of the wall, and then used ropes to let themselves down into the Hunting Reserve.

Harry first reached the secret door, but strove in vain to find the hidden spring. The pursuers were gaining upon them, and Enola, urging her zebra forward, sprang to the ground and, grasping the lever, pressed hard on it, but the stone door of the cave failed to open. Her heart sank within her. She remembered the last revolution it had made, and the difficulty with which she had rescued Sedai from its stony embrace. Could it be that the mechanism was then injured? The mighty spring broken, perhaps? She reeled for a second, as the dreadful possibility suggested itself to her. Then seizing Harry’s rifle she dashed its butt against the lever and the heavy stone door began to revolve.

Sedai, seizing a heavy branch, struck the zebra upon which Mrs. Graham was riding, and the frightened animal sprang through the opening, followed by the one ridden by Nellie. One after another they were driven through, and as the leaders of the pursuing party dashed into the open glade, Sedai drove the last unmounted zebra through the opening. Springing to the ground, the foremost of the pursuers sought to grasp Sedai, but with a swing of his club about his head, the assailant was laid low, and Sedai disappeared. Through the crack of the door, as it swung shut, came a heart-rending cry of “Enola, Enola,” from the King.

Once more, with pale faces and beating hearts, the explorers stood within the great subterranean cavern, which had so nearly been their tomb, but which now 397was a place of refuge. The hidden City of On had been discovered, its history and its people were known to them, the object of their journey had been accomplished.

After the party had rested, they took their way across the cave, and with the zebras this was found easy to do. These trained animals easily leaped across the break in the bridge, but when it came to the small entrance at the opposite side of the cave, it was feared that they would have to be left here to die, as the hole was too small for them to pass through. Our friends were greatly grieved to think that they would have to leave these noble beasts to die in such a cruel way, in the cave, but there seemed no other alternative, and they dismounted and passed through the hole, but they had not calculated on the training of these animals, and they had hardly stepped into the open air, when one of the zebras came crawling through on his haunches, and shortly after the others followed him. These had been trained to do this, and our friends now remembered having seen them perform this trick on the night preceding the Day of Resis.

It took them but a short time to reach the village of Umsaga, where they found the carriers still waiting for them, and in a few weeks they were again in Zanzibar, and had no difficulty in getting passage to England, from where they sailed for home.

A few weeks after their arrival in New York, a double wedding was announced, and on the evening of the happy day, carriage after carriage rolled to the door of the Graham mansion, depositing richly clad women and courtly men. Under an arch of flowers, a 398little later, stood four people, arrayed in strange robes of silk, with bands of gold binding their brows and with girdles of gold about their waists.

In the costume of the Land of On, the double wedding was in progress, and in the faces of the women could be read a story of trust and confidence and love supreme, and in those of the men, the satisfaction of proud manhood fitly crowned.

As a writer of domestic stories, which are extremely interesting, Mrs. Mary Holmes is unrivalled. Her characters are true to life, quaint, and admirable.

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• West Lawn.
• Mildred.
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• Madeline.
• Christmas Stories.
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• Dr. Hathern’s Daughters. (New.)

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• TEMPEST AND SUNSHINE.
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• MRS. HALLAM’S COMPANION. (New.)

OPINIONS OF THE PRESS.

“Mrs. Holmes’ stories are universally read. Her admirers are numberless. She is in many respects without a rival in the world of fiction. Her characters are always life-like, and she makes them talk and act like human beings, subject to the same emotions, swayed by the same passions, and actuated by the same motives which are common among men and women of every-day existence. Mrs. Holmes is very happy in portraying domestic life. Old and young peruse her stories with great delight, for she writes in a style that all can comprehend.”—New York Weekly.

THE NORTH AMERICAN REVIEW, vol. 81, page 557, says of Mrs. Mary J. Holmes’ novel “English Orphans”: “With this novel of Mrs. Holmes’ we have been charmed, and so have a pretty numerous circle of discriminating readers to whom we have lent it. The characterization is exquisite, especially so far as concerns rural and village life, of which there are some pictures that deserve to be hung up in perpetual memory of types of humanity fast becoming extinct. The dialogues are generally brief, pointed, and appropriate. The plot seems simple, so easily and naturally is it developed and consummated. Moreover, the story thus gracefully constructed and written, inculcates without obtruding, but only pure Christian morality in general, but, with especial point and power, the dependence of true success on character, and of true respectability on merit.”

“Mrs. Holmes’ stories are all of a domestic character, and their interest, therefore, is not so intense as if they were more highly seasoned with sensationalism, but it is of a healthy and abiding character. The interest in her tales begins at once, and is maintained to the close. Her sentiments are so sound, her sympathies so warm and ready, and her knowledge of manners, character, and the varied incidents of ordinary life is so thorough, that she would find it difficult to write any other than an excellent tale if she were to try it.”—Boston Banner.

☞ The volumes are all handsomely printed and bound in cloth, sold everywhere, and sent by mail, postage free, on receipt of price [$1.50 each].