In his biography, Meanwhile..., Caniff stated that he hated the serial for changing so much of his comic strip, and that "I saw the first chapter and walked out screaming".

The elder Lee is an archaeologist, and the leader of a scientific expedition seeking evidence of a lost civilization.

The gang is led by the evil Master Fang, a local warlord who controls half of the natives and holds the white settlers in fear.

Attacked by Fang, his henchman Stanton, and the Leopard Men, Terry and Pat try valiantly to locate the missing Dr. Lee, uncover the secrets of the lost civilization, and recover the hidden treasure of Mara.

After joining forces with Connie, Normandie, and the Dragon Lady, the heroes have myriad varied adventures in the inhospitable environment.