Mr. Roumann spent most of his time
in the engine-room, assembling the machinery of the two motors,
and arranging the connections between them and the pilot house in
the "nose" of the projectile. The strange gas had been forced in
between the two shells of the projectile, to absorb the heat that
would be generated by friction, and nearly all the stores had
been put aboard.
The electric guns were installed, ready to be run out of the
openings of the living-room to repel any attack of the Martians,
and then the ports were closed tightly.
Finishing touches were being put on the Annihilator, and Mr.
Henderson and his German friend were kept very busy. As for the
boys, they helped wherever they could, and did considerable work,
for they had been well trained by their guardian.
Andy remained on guard at the door with his gun. He said he was
going to take no more chances with the crazy machinist.
Nothing further had been seen or heard of the mysterious thief
who had stolen the plates, and it was supposed that he was unable
to make any use of them.
One afternoon, about three days before the time set to start for
Mars, Mr.
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