Page:Clement Fezandié - Through the Earth.djvu/156

136 "Good gracious!" exclaimed our hero, looking upward in astonishment, "that's a drop of about fifteen feet! In spite of the cushions, I'd have a pretty rough fall if I tried that kind of diving. On the other hand, the doctor told me to be sure to follow exactly the directions given; and he did n't look as though he wanted to kill me. Perhaps, after all, I'd better follow his advice."

And, lightly climbing up by some straps which he noticed on the side of the car, William seized two handles that were swinging from the ceiling. At this moment he heard the clock strike eleven.

"Time's up," said he. "Well, good-by, Australia. Take good care of yourself while I'm away." And with these words he swung out into mid-air, turned head downward, and let himself drop.