READ THE NOVEL- Chapters 1-31 - ERBzine

Tarzan on Mars
prepared his mind and temperament for it.
Directing a warning growl at the dying beast in front of
him, he turned to search for his canteen of water. Having
found it, he drained half of it. Then he searched the ground
for any personal effects which might be worth carrying, and
soon he discovered the glittering Holy Diadem from Opar,
torn loose from its wrappings. Nearby was one of a pair of
fingerless, fur-lined mitts which he had been carrying in his
belt. This he tied to the shreds of his remaining garments,
using it as a hunting pouch, and into it he deposited the Great
Star of Issus.
Then he walked slowly away from the bloody scene of
battle and climbed up the side of the nearest hill, having
forgotten the automatic entirely. At the top, he observed a
continuation of endless, rolling ridges beyond. He felt sick
and faint.
Finally, he lay down on the ground to rest. Thuria had
already passed beyond the western horizon and only Cluros
remained, as though curiously watching this amazing newcomer
to the aged planet. Old Barsoom had witnessed many
strange sights of which men only whispered in superstitious
awe, but never before had such a man as Tarzan of the Apes
walked upon its time-worn surface. Or ever would again.
Wondering at his own unbelievable prowess in this
strange new environment, Tarzan fell asleep. But the night
was cold and he was not at ease because of a lack of orientation
with his surroundings. Therefore, he slept only long
enough to recover from his momentary exhaustion.
Long before the dawn, he arose and shook himself morosely.
He was sore from his recent battle, he was immersed
in a mood of brooding, sullen anger, and he was very hungry.
Feeling that same amazing lightness in his limbs which
he had experienced before, he started off down the other side
of the hill. This time, however, he moved cautiously, stealthily,
his nostrils attuned to the gently shifting breezes of the
201