"007 (B006) - The Lost Oasis (1933-09) - Lester Dent" - читать интересную книгу автора (Robeson Kenneth)

THE LOST OASIS



A Doc Savage Adventure



by Kenneth Robeson





(Originally published in Doc Savage Magazine for September 1933. Bantam Books reprint April 1965)









Chapter I



A MILLION-DOLLAR MYSTERY





THE NEW York water front was in the grip of excitement. Expectant, curious crowds milled in the district, and more were arriving.



Nearly every pier end - these offered the best views of the harbor - held a cluster of staring individuals. There was much talk, and the watchers bought numerous newspapers.



Perfect strangers argued over the headlines as though they had been lifelong acquaintances. These discussions always ended with both participants fixing intent stares upon the bay surface.



The absence of a moon made the early evening darkness rather murky. Many spectators secured binoculars and telescopes from hawkers who offered these articles for rent. Newsboys were yelling themselves hoarse. Peanuts, pretzels, hot dogs, and soft drinks were selling fast. But even the peddlers frequently took off long enough to scamper out on the piers and gaze at the bay.