CHAPTER XII
Trial Flight
While Andy lay senseless on the floor of the hangar with the flames from the oil-soaked waste mounting higher, a shadow appeared in the doorway. It was Blatz, whom Andy had surprised in the hangar as he was about to attempt the destruction of the Goliath.
The German observer crept closer to the flames and it was not until he was almost at the blaze that he discerned the inert form of the assistant pilot.
“Andy,” he cried, “Andy!”
There was no answer and Blatz acted with sudden determination. He picked up the coat which Andy still clutched and used the garment to beat out the flames. That task accomplished he turned on his flashlight and bent down to examine the lump on Andy’s forehead. The young airman groaned and Blatz chuckled grimly. The game was nearly over. He was glad.
He managed to pick Andy up and carried the now half-conscious American out of the hangar and into his office, where he turned on the light.
Andy came to several minutes later and finally focused his eyes long enough on one spot to see Blatz standing in front of him.
“I’m on to you,” cried Andy, struggling to get out of his chair. “You’re trying to destroy the Goliath.”
“Easy, Andy, easy,” urged Blatz. “You’ve had another nasty bump on your head. The Goliath is all right.”
“The last I remember is falling,” said Andy. “How did I get in here and what are you doing around the hangar at this time of night?”