"Then we must report to him in Soissons," declared Chester. "We may not return to our own command without his permission, Hal."
"Right you are, Chester. Well, as long as we have this plane at our disposal, we shall continue to Soissons in it, if our good mayor here has no objections."
"None, sir," said the burgess of Hirson. "I am proud to be honored, as is every one of my fellow citizens. This has been a great event for Hirson."
"And for the world," said Hal briefly.
"Very true, sir," replied the burgess; "and for the world. But the plane is yours, if you will have it. After 11 o'clock to-morrow morning, we will have need of no such messenger of the air."
"Not for warlike purposes, at all events, I trust. Many thanks, Mr. Mayor. With your permission, we will be on our way at once."
The mayor bowed and insisted upon shaking hands with each. Then the lads repaired again to their machine and climbed in.
"Here's one trip we'll take without fear of danger," said Chester, as Hal touched the controls.
"Right," Hal agreed. "By the way, the mayor made us a present of this airplane. I've a good mind to keep it and take it back to America."
"Guess the French government would have something to say about that," laughed Chester. "However, you can try it if you want to."