Page:Clement Fezandié - Through the Earth.djvu/143

Rh "Oh, Dr. Giles, look at that ship!" she cried. Dr. Giles turned to the window and looked out. To his surprise, he saw a large vessel at anchor. During the events of the last half-hour he had been so engrossed with other matters that he had not noticed its approach; but now he looked at it with some anxiety; and his anxiety was but too well founded.

"Why, that's an Australian revenue cutter!" exclaimed Mr. Curtis. "What in the world can it want here? I suppose it's going to establish a custom-house on the islet to collect duties from the American passengers who come through the tunnel. When William returns, his baggage will all have to be inspected and chalked before he will be allowed to land."

"I sincerely hope it is only that," said Dr. Giles, somewhat relieved.

At this moment there was a knock at the door, and a government official entered, bearing a large missive.

"Is this Dr. Giles?" he inquired.

"Yes, sir; that's my name," said the doctor, with an anxious glance at the document which his visitor held.

"Well, I represent the Australian government,