within the memory of every one in reach
of my voice that it was through the entirely unexpected succor which
Providence sent us that we were suddenly and effectually freed from the
invaders. By our own efforts we could have done nothing."

McKinley's Tribute.

"But, as you all know, the first feeling of relief which followed the
death of our foes was quickly succeeded by the fearful news which came to
us from the observatories, that the Martians were undoubtedly preparing
for a second invasion of our planet. Against this we should have had no
recourse and no hope but for the genius of one of my countrymen, who,
as you are all aware, has perfected means which may enable us not only
to withstand the attack of those awful enemies, but to meet them, and,
let us hope, to conquer them on their own ground."

"Mr. Edison is here to explain to you what those means are. But we have
also another object. Whether we send a fleet of interplanetary ships
to invade Mars or whether we simply confine our attention to works of
defence, in either case it will be necessary to raise a very large sum
of money. None of us has yet recovered from the effects of the recent
invasion. The earth is poor to-day compared to its position a few years
ago; yet we cannot allow our poverty to stand in the way. The money,
the means, must be had. It will be part of our business here to raise
a gigantic war fund by the aid of which we can construct the equipment
and machinery that we shall require. This, I think, is all I need to
say. Let us proceed to business."

"Where is Mr. Edison?" cried a voice.

"Will Mr. Edison please step forward?" said the President.

There was a stir in the assembly, and the iron-gray head of the great
inventor was seen moving through the crowd. In his hand he carried one of
his marvellous disintegrators. He was requested to explain and illustrate
its operation. Mr. Edison smiled.

Edison to the Rescue.

"I can explain its details," he said, "to Lord Kelvin, for instance,
but if Their Majesties will excuse me, I doubt whether I can make it
plain to the crowned heads."

The Emperor William smiled superciliously. Apparently he thought that
another assault had been committed upon the divine right of kings. But
the Czar Nicholas appeared to be amused, and the Emperor of China, who
had been studying English, laughed in his sleeve, as if he suspected
that a joke had been perpetrated.

"I think," said one of the deputies,