Down and down she went, fairly forced by the Chaser above her, by the Chaser, that frail little craft of the air, compared to which the Comet was like a battleship opposed to a torpedo destroyer. But those on the little ship knew their business, and, after all, brains and skill told.
“Can he get by?” asked Bob.
“I don’t believe so,” answered Jerry, watching every move of his rival. But Noddy had given up the fight. He was beaten at his own game.
Still downward he forced the Comet, while Jerry and his chums prepared to alight the moment their craft touched the earth, to drive away their enemies.
Bounding lightly, the Comet landed on the ground. A moment later the aeroplane followed, and Jerry let her run along on the bicycle wheels, the propellers urging her on, until she was almost in contact with the big craft. Then the tall lad yanked on the brake lever, and the Chaser came to a stop.
“Come on!” cried Jerry, leaping out of his seat. Bob and Ned followed.
Noddy Nixon lost no time in leaving the pilot house on the run, and from the motor room emerged Bill Berry and the college man. They leaped over the rail, and joined Noddy in flight.
“If we ever catch ’em!” panted fat Bob, as he ran as fast as he could. “We’ll—make—’em—pay—for—this!”