"I see," answered Mr. Parker. "Very curious. I had no idea they worked this way."
"Oh, if I only had my electric rifle in shape!" sighed Tom, as he dashed forward at the side of Ned.
"Your electric rifle?"
"Yes, I've got a new kind of weapon—very effective. I have it almost finished. It's in the airship, but I can't use it just yet. However, maybe these repeaters will do the work."
By this time they were at the entrance of the cave, and, looking out they saw about a hundred Indians, dressed in furs, striding across the snowy plain that stretched out from the foot of the mountain in which was the cavern.
"They're certainly comin' on," observed Abe, grimly. "Git ready for 'em, boys!"
The gold-seekers lined up at the mouth of the cave, with guns in their hands. At the sight of this small, but formidable force, the Indians halted. They were armed with guns of ancient make, while some had spears, and others bows and arrows. A few had grabbed up stones as weapons.
There appeared to be a consultation going on among them, and, presently, one of the number, evidently a chief or a spokesman, gave his gun to one of his followers, and, holding his hands
