We've got to get through, together
with that black case of mine, and then shut the door in the face
of all Thomahlia!"
Nothing more was said on the subject until late the following
afternoon, as the doctor, Harry, and Chick sat down to a light
meal. They ate much as if nothing whatever was in the wind. From
where they sat, in one part of a wing of the temple, they could
look out into the crowded streets, in which were packed untold
numbers of pilgrims, all pressing towards the great square plaza
in front of the temple. No guards were to be seen; the solemnity
of the occasion was sufficient to keep order. But the terrific
potentiality of that semi-fanatical host did not cause the
doctor's voice to change one iota.
"There is no telling what may happen," he said. "For my own part I
shall not venture near the Spot of Life until just at the end. I
shall remain in the chamber underneath.
"But you two ought to show yourselves immediately after sundown.
Certain ancient writings indicate it. You, and the Nervina, will
have to mount the stair to the Spot, and remain in sight until
midnight--until the end.
"So we must be prepared for accidents." He took some papers from
his pocket, and selected two, and gave one to each of his pupils.
"Here are the details of what must be done. In case only one of us
gets through, it will be enough."
"But--how can these be of any use, on such short notice?" Harry
asked.
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