We will not have
to start it again until we make the return trip. I will now
again put into operation the atmospheric motor, and we will see
how it behaves. Kindly inform Mr. Henderson, so he will
understand what is taking place."
Mark hastened to the pilot house with this message, and then
returned to watch Mr. Roumann, the professor agreeing to remain
at the steering wheel until relieved by his friend.
Mr. Roumann began adjusting the second motor. It had been kept
in readiness for instant service, and did not require much
attention.
"I don't see why we have to use it at all," said Jack.
"Why shouldn't we?" Mark wanted to know.
"Because if we are near Mars it ought to attract us, just as if
we were near the earth. We ought to fall right into it."
"That is just the danger," commented Mr. Roumann. "We don't want
to fall. We want our projectile under perfect control, and I can
only attain that end by using the motor. Besides, we are not
near enough to Mars to be attracted by its force of gravitation,
even supposing it is the same as that of our earth.
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