“We’ll do better than that,” prophesied Mr. Glassford. “Here, Jerry, suppose you take charge a while. I’ll come back in the cabin.”
Not without a little feeling of nervousness did Jerry take his place in the pilot house. But he had profited by the lessons of the inventor, and soon, to show his control of the ship, he sent her up and down, and to right and left.
“Fine!” cried Mr. Glassford. “You’ll do.”
In turn Ned and Bob steered, but when it was suggested that Professor Snodgrass try his hand he balked.
“My business is to catch insects for science,” he said. “I did enough damage when I disarranged the propeller. I’m not going to risk it again.”
They had lunch high in the air, a most novel experience for them, though Bob was not affected by it and ate as heartily as if he was on the earth, according to his two chums.
“Well, we’ve made a hundred and fifty miles since we started,” announced Mr. Glassford a little later. “I think that demonstrates what we can do. Suppose we turn back?”
“That suits me,” said Jerry. “The folks may be worried about us.”
Accordingly, the Comet was put about and headed for Cresville. The speed at once increased, as she had the benefit of a stiff breeze to aid her.
They had sped along for perhaps fifty miles when the billowy, white mass of clouds above which they were sailing gave place to a broad expanse of clear atmosphere. The brightly shining sun struck full upon them, and they could see the green earth spread out below.