Page:Works of Jules Verne - Parke - Vol 1.djvu/426

 cious documents of their expeditions. They explored the country formed by the bend of the Senegal, where war and pillage have left only ruin."

"How did it come to pass?"

"This way. In 1854, a marabout, of Fouta, named Al-Hadji, said he was inspired by Mahomet, and incited all the tribes to war against the infidels, viz., the Europeans. He carried desolation and destruction between the Senegal and its affluent the Falune. Three bands of fanatics, guided by him, marched through the country with fire and sword. He even advanced into the valley of the Niger to the town of Sego, which was threatened for a long time. In 1857 he went up northwards and invested Fort Medina, built by the French on the banks of the river. This place was defended by a hero, Paul Holl, who for many months, without food or supplies, held out till Colonel Faidherbe came to his rescue. Then Al-Hadji and his band repassed the Senegal and returned into Koarta to continue their rapine and murder. Now this is the country to which he has fled with his troops of bandits, and I assure you I would rather not fall into their hands."

"We shall not do so," said Joe, "if we have to sacrifice our boots to lighten the 'Victoria.'"

"We are not far from the river," said the doctor; "but I foresee our balloon will not carry us even so far."

"If we arrive on the banks, that will be something," said Kennedy.

"That is what we must try to do," said the doctor; "but one thing worries me."

"What is that?"

"We have to cross some mountains, and that will be a difficult operation, since I cannot increase the ascensional force of the balloon, even by the greatest possible heat."

"Wait," said Kennedy, "we shall see."

"Poor 'Victoria!'" said Joe. "I am as attached to it as a sailor to his ship, and I shall not leave it without regret. It is not what it was at the outset, certainly; but then we need not speak evil of it. It has done us excellent service, and it will break my heart to abandon it."

"Rest assured, Joe, if we do abandon it, it will be against our will. It will serve us to the best of its ability. I only ask for twenty-four hours longer."