“Following the news of the disastrous earthquakes that have been scourging America and the islands of the South American coast,” he read, “come accounts of further appalling phenomena. In all parts of America, after violent cyclones, the land has in many places opened up, and swallowed men, animals and buildings. The loss of life is abnormal—rough estimates are given as high as 900,000 lives. Internal rumblings and coastal waterspouts in Tasmania have caused a panic among the population. The sea is too rough for even the largest boat to sail upon. Natives are rushing hither and thither with no real idea of where to go for safety. Volcanic eruptions are taking place in districts where for thousands of years the volcanoes have been extinct. Scientists are at present unable to account for this extraordinary outbreak of nature. As we go to press, news has come through that Sydney has disappeared entirely. San Francisco is in ruins. The whole of Cape Colony has sunk below sea level—and the water has poured over the whole country, sweeping everything before it. A later edition of this paper will be issued at noon, and at intervals during the afternoon and evening with news as it comes to hand.” “It is the worst scourge nature has ever given us,” said Sir John. “What I cannot understand,” said Alan, “is why it is in so many places at once. Different latitudes seem to have suffered and different lands.” All that day a deep depression had taken hold of the occupants of the little cottage, and they were all very quiet. “Masters, motor over to Arroch Head,” said Sir John, about six in the evening, “and if you can get no further news, ring up the offices of the _Scotsman_. Tell the Editor you are speaking for me. He will give you the latest news, I am sure.” Masters was back within the hour, his face blanched, his hands trembling. “Well?” asked Sir John. “Is it as bad as all that?” “It’s terrible,” replied Masters. “It’s coming nearer home. Rome has gone entirely—so have Naples and Athens. Spain and Portugal are under water. Authentic news is hard to get, as telephonic and cable communication in many places have failed. Some air scouts were sent to investigate, and witnessed the destruction of Spain. The air disturbances were so great that it was with the greatest difficulty they managed to reach England in safety.” “Do they think this visitation will reach us?” asked Desmond, the picture of his wife and child coming before his eyes. “The _Scotsman_ says that so far the Meteorological Office reports no disturbances within eighty miles in all directions of our coast. They hold out a hope, that being an island, we may escape,” said Masters brokenly.