“Well, they’re no better,” was the reply, “and I fear there is some new move afoot on the part of those who are trying to ruin me. If I don’t get help soon it will be too late.”
“We’ll leave for Danforth day after to-morrow,” decided Jerry on hearing this.
“Can we be ready in time?” asked Ned.
“We’ll have to,” was the grim retort. “I’ll let you and Bob attend to the storing of the provisions and supplies, and I’ll tinker with the machinery. We can do it if we hustle, and hustle we will. Meanwhile you might send a telegram to the authorities of the meet, asking if Mr. Jackson has arrived yet, and if he has, request them to tell him to wait until we get there, as we have an important message for him.”
Ned did this, and received a reply to the effect that Mr. Jackson had not yet arrived. It was stated, however, that his dirigible balloon was on the ground, and that his employées were getting it in shape for a flight on the opening day of the aeroplane carnival, which was four days off.
“Oh, then we’ll be in plenty of time,” declared Jerry. “There is always some delay in these affairs, and, once we get started in the Comet we can make all kinds of fast time. You needn’t worry about it, Mr. Slade.”
But the merchant could not help worrying, for his business affairs were in dire straits.
The adjusting of the machinery, and the fitting out of the motor-ship for the coming voyage, proceeded rapidly. Bob, to whom was left the purchasing of the provisions, was in his element.
The last work had been done, the last box put aboard, and the final adjustment made to the machinery. The Comet was ready to leave.