"
Dick and his chums naturally did not care much for the surly
soldier, but they liked Lieutenant McBride at once. He smilingly
told them what to do, and the boys helped to push the machines to
a shed that had been set aside for them. The wireless apparatus
was taken apart and stored away, the gas being let out of the
balloon.
The work was almost finished, when Larry Dexter, with Mr. Vardon
and the latter's helper, Jack, came across to the sheds. They had
come to see the army airships.
By this time Lieutenant Larson had finished what he considered was
his share of the work, and was on his way to get a brief leave of
absence from his captain. At the entrance to the shed he came face
to face with Mr. Vardon and Jack.
"Oh, so you're the professional aviator they spoke of," said Larson,
with a sneer in his tone.
"Yes, I'm here," replied Mr. Vardon, quietly. "I did not expect to
see you here, though."
"The surprise is mutual," mocked the other. "I read about your
failure. I suppose now, you will quit fooling with that gyroscope
of yours, and give my method a trial."
"I never will. I am convinced that I am right, and that you are
wrong."
"You're foolish," was the retort.
Jack Butt stepped forward and whispered in the ear of his employer,
so that at least Dick heard what he said.
"I believe HE did it!" were the tense words of the machinist.
CHAPTER VI
DICK'S FIRST FLIGHT
Mr. Vardon gave his helper a quick and warning glance.
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