The balloon was in a small roped-off enclosure and some men were at work filling it with hot air. Beside the balloon rested a big basket. It had been advertised that the professor would take somebody up with him provided that person would remain in the balloon after the aëronaut cut loose with his parachute, but so far nobody had come forward to take up the offer.
CHAPTER XXVII
UP IN A BALLOON
“This would just suit me to death,” said Andy, as he gazed with longing eyes at the balloon.
“Get in the basket and see how it feels,” suggested Jack.
The acrobatic youth was quick to comply. The men working around were good-natured and did not interfere.
“Come in here with me,” said Andy, and Pepper and Jack did as requested. Then Andy began to examine the ropes which held the basket to the balloon.
“The balloon is filling,” said Jack.
“Hi, what are you fellows doing in that balloon?” came from Nick Paxton, as he strode up. He was the only one of the Baxter crowd that had come to the celebration.
“That is none of your business,” answered Pepper.
At that moment came a shout from another part of the grounds. Then followed a big explosion.