’This pavilion is a sort of grand stand—a place of vantage from which the privileged spectators obtain a good view—and a safe one—of what takes place in the enclosure when there is anything exciting going on,’ Malandris explained. ’It is not used for any other purpose, and is empty’—— ’Wait a moment!’ Malto interrupted, with a sudden light in his eyes. ’I am not so sure that it is quite empty. Is there not a store-place below, where they keep’—— ’You are right, Malto,’ the other answered in some excitement. ’I had forgotten it. There may be some arms and things there which would be useful indeed if we have to try to hold out for a time till assistance can reach us. But I am afraid the place is locked up’—— ’Perhaps my key will fit; if not, we must break it open.’ Just then there came a great gust of wind and another and louder growl of thunder; and a little later there was heard an outburst of shouting outside. Malto ran out on to the balcony to see what it meant. There was a good deal of excitement amongst their enemies below. People were talking one to another, and some were pointing up at the pavilion, while a few were huddled together in a knot. In the middle of these last were seen two men who were doing something with some wings, seemingly preparatory to taking a flight in the air. ’They have thrown off all thought of concealment,’ said Malto, coming inside again. ’You can see that. So what you told us, Prince, must be only too true! They are going to send a couple of fliers up to attempt our capture.’ ’But in that case, why does not Agrando send an airship and settle the matter at once?’ Gerald asked. ’I expect just now all his airships are busy fighting my friends,’ said Alondra. ’They will attend to us presently, I suppose, if the people here don’t succeed.’ ’Well, we will make a fight of it, anyway!’ cried Malto sturdily. ’I believe we may find the means down below, if you can keep them at bay for a little time while we search’—— ’We can manage that, I think,’ Jack answered him. ’Do you go below and see what you can find to help us.’ Again there came a blustering gust of the fast-rising wind. Then there was a blinding flash, followed by a deafening crash of thunder which shook the whole building to its foundations. *CHAPTER XXVII.* *A DESPERATE VENTURE.* Malto and Malandris disappeared down a stairway; and Alondra and the two chums strolled on to the outside gallery to watch their foes. The wind was now very high, and the darkening sky grew blacker every minute. The swirling gusts whistled and shrieked amongst the outer metal framework, and moaned dismally through the windows and doors.