The work was started, but almost at once Larson demanded more than
the original three thousand. Uncle Ezra "went up in the air," so
to speak.
"More money!" he cried. "I shan't spend another cent!"
"But you'll have to. We want this airship to win the prize, and
get ahead of the one your nephew is building. I have decided on
some changes, and they will cost money."
Uncle Ezra sighed--and gave in. The truth was that Larson was
little better than a sharper, and, though he did know something
about aeroplanes, he knew more about how to fleece his victims.
And though Uncle Ezra furnished more money he tried to save it in
other ways. He skimped on his table, until even Aunt Samantha, used
as she was to "closeness," objected. Then Mr. Larabee announced a
cut in wages at his factory, and nearly caused a strike.
But he was firm, and by reducing the pittance earned by the luckless
operatives he managed to save a few hundred dollars which promptly
went into the airship--that is, what Larson did not keep for
himself.
But Uncle Ezra's airship was being built, which fact, when it became
known, caused much comment. No one save Uncle Ezra and the
lieutenant and his workmen, were allowed in the factory where the
machine was being constructed. It was to be kept a secret as to the
form of construction.
Meanwhile, having committed himself to becoming an aviator, Mr.
Larabee began to study the methods of birdmen. He obtained several
volumes (second hand, of course) on the history of navigating the
air, and on the advance in the construction of aeroplanes.
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