“We came along, and they took us for the miniature craft and fired at us,” Jerry continued. “It was all a mistake, but it was lucky they didn’t hit us. They must be puzzled, though, to see the second airship coming along.”
“Well, they’ve done for that one, anyhow!” cried Bob. “See, it’s all afire!”
It was blazing fiercely, and beginning to descend, while a shower of rockets, and aerial bombs shot all around it. Our friends were now out of reach of the pyrotechnics, and ventured to turn on their lights again. Down below could be seen the place of the celebration, brilliantly illuminated, but the glow soon died out, and it was evident that the destruction of the miniature airship brought the affair to a close.
They did not get to sleep early, on account of the excitement, but finally Jerry suggested that they take turns going on duty in the motor room.
“For,” said the tall lad, “we’re flying low, and the machinery is so new that we can’t altogether depend on the automatic steering gear. So, to avoid accidents, some one will have to be on watch all night.”
Morning came, with nothing having happened, and Bob was about early, bustling here and there getting breakfast. They were eating it, taking occasional glimpses down at the country over which they were passing, and speculating on when they would arrive at the balloon meet, and what would happen when they got there, when, with a suddenness that was terrifying, the Comet was jerked backward.
The big aircraft trembled from end to end, and shivered throughout her length. Next followed a series of jerks, and then came a ripping, rending, tearing and splintering sound, hearing which, Jerry, with fear on his face, leaped to his feet.
“What’s the matter?” cried Ned.
“Have we blown up?” demanded Bob.