“Well, fellows, if we’re going, we’d better see to the Comet,” proposed Jerry. “Come on, hustle! Professor Snodgrass——”
“Right here!” cried the little scientist eagerly. “I’ll do anything you say. Oh, to think that at last we are to go to sea where I may get my singing fish! What shall I do?”
He was anxious to help, and for the time being forgot all about gathering ordinary specimens. Jerry mentioned several tasks which the little man could well attend to.
Soon there were busy scenes about the Comet. Gasolene was being poured into her reserve tanks. Bob took a last look at the provisions, and added several boxes and packages of food that kind friends offered. At Mr. Durkin’s suggestion some medicines were taken along, also some planks and ropes to be used in the possible rescue.
Jerry and Ned went over the machinery, and found that it was all right. Not a bolt was strained, not a nut loosened. The Comet was fit to make a flight half way across the Atlantic if need be.
“Well, I guess we’re about ready to start,” announced Jerry, after a last look over the machinery. There were many offers of help from persons in the crowd, but there was little they could do. Many also begged to be taken on the rescue trip, but these, of course, had to be refused.
“The sooner we get started the better,” spoke Ned, as he started on a run across the aviation grounds.
“Where you going?” called Jerry.
“To send a message to dad. I want to tell him where we are going, and the reason why I haven’t been able to get in touch with Mr. Jackson.”
“That’s a good idea. Send word to my folks, and to Bob’s also.”