"Sure it isn't because that will be near Kansas City—where he is?" teased Louise.
"Oh no, I wouldn't believe that of Ted. He is seriously interested in my career—yours too, for I told him that you might go with me."
"Might!" repeated Louise, settling back in her seat to enjoy the ride, for it was a lovely day, and there was no top over the car. "Nobody could stop me now—after this afternoon! We're going to beat Bess Hulbert to it, and get that prize!"
"Lou, if we only could! You know how I've talked of flying the ocean before. Are you still game?"
"Absolutely! But we wouldn't dare take a chance in your Pursuit, would we?"
"No, of course not. What I'd like to get is a Model J Bellanca—it's made especially for that purpose. Take off early next May—the very day Lindy flew, if the weather happens to be right."
"Where would we ever get the money for such a plane?" asked Louise, incredulously. "It would cost thousands of dollars."
"Yes, I know. I talked to Daddy this morning, and if he decides to let me try it, he won't mind the money. But don't breathe a word of this to anybody! I wouldn't want Miss Hulbert to hear of it; she'd only make all manner of fun of us."
"Suppose she should get that prize," remarked Louise. "Can you imagine her in Paris, Linda? Representing American Girlhood! Why, it might start a war with the French!"
"Now, Lou, you're exaggerating too much. She isn't as disagreeable as all that."