"But the figure of the man at the wheel looks familiar." "Ah!" said John, drawing a deep breath.

In that region a familiar face could scarcely be the face of a friend.

He stiffened a little, and cast another look at the revolver in his belt to see that it was convenient to his hand.

Then, to indicate that he was not running away and to prevent suspicion, he slackened the speed of the machine.

As he did so the humming behind them rapidly grew louder and a light runabout drew up by their side.