CHAPTER XLII
A LAST SACRIFICE
Doctor Ferguson ascertained his position by the observation of the stars, and found that he was scarcely twenty-five miles from the Senegal.
"All that we can do, my friends," said he, pointing to the map, "is to cross the river; but as there are no boats we must cross it in the balloon, and for that purpose we must lighten it still more."
"But I do not see how we can," replied Kennedy, who was anxious on the score of his guns, "unless one of us decides to sacrifice himself and remain behind; and as it is my turn, I claim that honor."
"Why," cried Joe, "is it not my place?"
"It is not a case of throwing yourself down, my friend," said Kennedy; "but to gain the coast of Africa on foot; now I am a good walker, a sportsman."
"I will never agree to that," said Joe.
"Your generous contention is useless, my brave friends," said Ferguson. "I trust we shall not be put to such straits; besides, in case of necessity we must not separate at all; we must cross the country together."
"Be it so," said Joe, "a little walk will do us good."
"But first," said the doctor, we must do our utmost to lighten the 'Victoria.'"
"By what means?" asked Kennedy. "I am curious to know."
"We must throw away the dilating apparatus, the Buntzen pile, and the coil; in that there is nearly 900 lbs. weight to drag with us."
"But, Samuel, how then shall you obtain the expansion of the gas?"
"I shall not obtain it. We must do without."
"But———"
"Listen to me, my friends. I have calculated to a nicety what ascensional force is left in the balloon. It is sufficient to carry us with the few articles still remaining; we weigh scarcely 500 lbs., including those two grapnels, which I wish to keep."
"My dear Samuel," replied the Scot, "you are more competent than we in such cases—you are the best judge. Tell us what we ought to do, and we will do it."
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