“Douse her with oil,” called Jerry. “On the bearings, only, don’t flood the cylinders!”
Ned and Bob were busy over the machinery. Jerry was holding the wheel firmly, watching, from the corner of his eyes, the progress of the Snail. He thought he saw her falling back a little, and he used a little of his reserve power.
Suddenly, with a wheeze that sent a chill to the hearts of the boys, the Dartaway’s engine ceased to work, and the Snail shot ahead.
[CHAPTER VII]
“THERE SHE BLOWS”
“What’s the matter?” cried Jerry.
“Don’t know,” replied Bob. “Something’s broken.”
“It’s the batteries or magneto,” Ned exclaimed. “There’s no spark!”
“Quick! Throw on the new set of batteries I put in,” called Jerry. “Lively now! Maybe she’ll explode without cranking!”