Then Robur's voice rang out in words which even now I can repeat almost as he said them: "Citizens of the United States, the president and the secretary of the Weldon Institute are again in my power.

In holding them prisoners I would but be exercising my natural right of reprisal for the injuries they have done me.

But the passion and resentment which have been roused both in them and you by the success of the 'Albatross,' show that the souls of men are not yet ready for the vast increase of power which the conquest of the air will bring to them.

Uncle Prudent, Phillip Evans, you are free." The three men rescued from the balloon leaped to the ground.

The airship rose some thirty feet out of reach, and Robur recommenced: "Citizens of the United States, the conquest of the air is made; but it shall not be given into your hands until the proper time.