Then we turned
on the buoyance rays in the balance of them and let them rise by
themselves to further block the passage to Omean as they came into
contact with the vessels already lodged there.
We now felt that it would be some time at least before the returning
First Born could reach the surface of Omean, and that we would have
ample opportunity to make for the subterranean passages which lead
to Issus. One of the first steps I took was to hasten personally
with a good-sized force to the island of the submarine, which I
took without resistance on the part of the small guard there.
I found the submarine in its pool, and at once placed a strong
guard upon it and the island, where I remained to wait the coming
of Carthoris and the others.
Among the prisoners was Yersted, commander of the submarine. He
recognized me from the three trips that I had taken with him during
my captivity among the First Born.
"How does it seem," I asked him, "to have the tables turned? To
be prisoner of your erstwhile captive?"
He smiled, a very grim smile pregnant with hidden meaning.
"It will not be for long, John Carter," he replied. "We have been
expecting you and we are prepared."
"So it would appear," I answered, "for you were all ready to become
my prisoners with scarce a blow struck on either side."
"The fleet must have missed you," he said, "but it will return
to Omean, and then that will be a very different matter--for John
Carter.
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