CHAPTER XVI
AN ALARMING THEORY
For a few seconds, following Tom's announcement to his two companions, neither Mr. Damon nor Mr. Fenwick spoke. They had arisen from the beach, where the shock of the earthquake had thrown them, and were now staring toward the other band of castaways, who, in turn were gazing toward our three friends. There was a violent agitation in the sea, caused by the fall of the great cliff, and immense waves rushed up on shore, but all the islanders were beyond the reach of the rollers.
"Is it—do I really—am I dreaming or not?" at length gasped Mr. Damon.
"Is this a mirage, or do we really see people, Tom?" inquired Mr. Fenwick.
"They are real enough people," replied the lad. himself, somewhat dazed by the unexpected appearance of the other castaways.
"But how—why—how did they get here?" went on the inventor of the Whizzer.
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