Even its depths were explored with a sounding-line without result.

Must it be concluded that the submarine no longer lurked beneath its waters?
But in that case, how had the boat gotten away?
For that matter, how had it come?
An insoluble problem! The submarine was heard from no more, neither in Lake Kirdall nor elsewhere.

It had disappeared like the automobile from the roads, and like the boat from the shores of America.

Several times in my interviews with Mr.Ward, we discussed this matter, which still filled his mind.

Our men continued everywhere on the lookout, but as unsuccessfully as other agents.
On the morning of the twenty-seventh of June, I was summoned into the presence of Mr.Ward.
"Well, Strock," said he, "here is a splendid chance for you to get your revenge." "Revenge for the Great Eyrie disappointment ?" "Of course." "What chance ?" asked I, not knowing if he spoke seriously, or in jest.
"Why, here," he answered.