On the following morning the boys, with the exception of Stacy,
reported at Tom Phipps's shack ready for the day's sight-seeing in the
zinc mine far underground. The assistant superintendent had made
ready a large basket of food, as the party was to dine in the mine.
Professor Zepplin was enthusiastic. It was an opportunity that he had
much desired.
"I understand," he said, fixing Tom Phipps with a stern glance of
inquiry, as they started for the mine, "that Silurian species have
been found in the limestones hereabouts. Also that others believed to
be Cambrian have been discovered. Is this in accordance with your
experience?"
"I think I understand to what you refer," answered Tom gravely. "I
can't say that I am familiar with the species, however."
"If Chunky was here he would want to know if it were something to
eat," laughed Ned. "I'm not very certain myself whether it is or
not."
"You'll be wiser by-and-by," said Tad.
Entrance to the mine was gained through a shaft leading straight down
for a great many feet. A windlass and bucket was employed to carry
the miners up and down, while through another and larger shaft
automatic buckets raised the zinc ore to the surface.
All of the party could not be accommodated in the passenger bucket at
one time, so it was necessary to make two trips, Mr. Phipps returning
with the vehicle to see that the rest of the boys got down safely.
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