They moved off to one side, where they could get a good view. There were four dirigible balloons in process of inflation. Slowly the oiled silk gas containers filled, as the light hydrogen vapor poured into them. Men were busy about them, straightening out the cords, attaching bags of ballast or adjusting the motors.
The wind had died out to a gentle breeze, and there was every prospect of a successful ascension. On all sides could be heard comments concerning what was about to take place.
“There, they seem to be all ready. All the balloons are filled,” remarked Mollie. “I almost wish I was going up in one.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t! Not for the whole world!” exclaimed Alice.
“Me either. Not for two worlds!” added Helen.
“Hello, there’s another,” remarked Bob as he saw a tent being opened, and the pointed nose of a fifth balloon was poked out.
“So it is,” admitted Jerry. “Say, that’s a queer one. It’s a balloon and aeroplane combined. That’s the stuff. That ought to do all sorts of stunts.”
“That’s the kind I want,” declared Bob. “You wouldn’t run much risk in that. If the gas gave out or the bag busted you could depend on the planes, and if they broke, why, you would be held up by the balloon.”
“Suppose they both broke?” asked Helen.
“Then—oh, then—well, of course——”