Page:Clement Fezandié - Through the Earth.djvu/68

48 "Well, come along, then," said the doctor; and he led the way into an adjoining room which could be hermetically shut off from the other parts of the caisson.

"There is our boat," he remarked, pointing to a large submarine vessel resting on its keel in the middle of the room.

A hatchway at the top of the boat was wide open, and through this Flora could see that the interior was upholstered in the most gorgeous style, and was provided with every modern improvement.

"Oh, what a pretty place!" she exclaimed, delighted. "Those colored electric lights make it seem like fairy-land, and it is furnished like a king's palace!"

"Yes," said Dr. Giles; "I had this boat built expressly for receiving state guests who come to visit the works. It has already carried several royal personages, but although good enough for kings and queens, it is none too good for you, Flora." And Dr. Giles pinched her cheek mischievously.

After the party had taken their places, the hatchway was closed, water was admitted to the outer chamber, and communication opened with the ocean. The pressure of a button set the