CHAPTER XVII.
THE DOCTOR'S APPARENT FATE.
It was early morning when we emerged from the abyss. The gibbous moon was sinking behind the long chains of mountains in the west, and the stars were shining brightly. A grand comet, which added intense interest to the wonderful scene, hung like a splendid jewel in the sky. The cold would have been unendurable by an ordinary mortal, but, owing to some merciful dispensation, I was not affected by it. I shall not attempt the impossible task of describing my own mental sensations or personal feelings.
My three companions did not altogether escape my watchful observation, and by the light of the moon, stars, and comet I could see them distinctly. The Demon sat opposite to me, his head resting against the top rail of the car, with part of his hedgehog robe wrapped closely around it. Obeltub nodded—Homer sometimes nods—but was careful enough to keep his hand on the driving wheel. His thoughts, half sleeping, half waking, appeared to be of an amusing character, for he smiled and showed his pointed fangs, and twisted the muscles of his face into all kinds of contortions. The Doctor sat by my side; he seemed to be rather dazed and stupefied, though perfectly awake; opening his eyes at short intervals, but only keeping them open for
