Chapter VIII: A Fair Captive From The Skies
You know, I think I am impressed by his poise, considering the fact that he is probably still naked.
Right, well, as they return to the city, one of the lookouts spots something, and everyone hides.
Over the hills sails a fleet of airships, low to the ground, a beautiful sight. Martians being Martians, they blow them out of the sky.
- And they're good at it; no screaming barbarian hordes, but expert and well organized marksmen. Their snipers take out the enemy's wireless finders and sights, greatly reducing the accuracy of return fire.
- Radar? I think Radar was almost science fiction in 1912; I think the idea had been bouncing around since 1890 or so, but I think Nikola Tesla ran his experiments only a few years before.
- Also, the radium rifles sound like bolt-action rifle bolters, what with the exploding bullets, and with radar sights. Cool Guns indeed.
One of the ships goes out of control while the rest flee. One survior is captured while the ship is looted and burned; a white woman! Also naked.
- John gets a little creepy saying clothes would not be able to add to her beauty.
- Well, this was probably written before William Theiss was born...
I can see the Western influence here. A very Circle The Wagons moment.
I can also see the inflence on Space1889, too. Flying ships on a barren Mars, savage and civilized Martians, and Mighty Whitey.
