w it. I'm safe
here, but I don't want to be chawed up by some strange reptile."

"Silence, boy!" said the professor. "Tell Captain Vindex," he continued,
to the negro, "that we are much obliged to him for his invitation, which
we gladly accept."

The negro bowed and retired.

At the time appointed the professor and the boys were conducted to a
cabin, which may be called the dressing-room, or arsenal, of the
_Searcher_.

Hanging on the walls were numerous helmets, such as divers wear, and a
number of guns reposed on hooks.

At the last moment Stump had determined to accompany the party.

Captain Vindex was already there, and received them graciously.

"I wish you good-day, professor," he said; "and you, too, my boys. I
think we shall enjoy some excellent sport among the sea otters and other
animals worth killing. You, Dr. Woddle, will be able to add to your
knowledge of natural history, for we are about to traverse a forest of
remarkable seaweeds and plants, in which you will find all kinds of
submarine life."

"I am obliged to you for your kindness, sir, and put myself entirely at
your disposal," replied the professor.

At a signal from the captain, two negroes assisted our heroes to put on
their apparel, and clothed them in thick waterproof made of India
rubber, which formed trousers and vest, the trousers terminating in a
pair of shoes with lead soles; a cuirass of leather protected the chest
from the pressure of the water, and allowed the lungs full play.

Supple gloves covered the hands, the helmet was then put on, and the
knapsack of compressed air adjusted on the back.

To each one was given a gun, the butt of which was of brass and hollow.

Here was stored the compressed air which discharged the electric
bullets, one of which fell into its proper place just as the other had
been shot away. The whole mechanism was perfect.

When all was ready they stepped into an empty cabin, the door closed
behind them, and, touching a knob, the captain allowed the room to fill
with water.

Then he opened a door and they walked out into the sea.

Each had an electric lamp fastened to the waist, which made their path
clear and distinct, enabling them to see every object through the glass
holes in their helmets.

The captain walked in front with the professor.

Carl and Mont were side by side, and Stump brought up the rear.

Walking was not very difficult, and the supply of air, well charged with
the oxygen n