"I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you. I want to try the machine several times before I risk taking anybody up."
The Snubble boys were delighted to think they could see the Dartaway fly and they assisted the others in making the necessary repairs. For two hours all were very busy and then Captain Colby announced the biplane in as good a condition as before the wild flight.
"Now I'll give her a short try-out," he said, and this was done. Up into the air mounted the Dartaway as gracefully as a bird, and all of the boys clapped their hands in delight.
"By gum! beats the nation!" said one of the Snubble lads.
"It's grand! I'm going to save up for one!" added the other.
Around the field sailed Captain Colby and then made the figure eight three times. Then he came down near the spot from which he had started.
"Couldn't be better," he declared. "I could take her a hundred miles if I wished."
"Wish I could go up," said Sam wistfully.
"Your time will come pretty soon," added the aviator. "The flight to your home will be a good test."
A little later the aviator arose again in the air, this time headed for Valley Brook farm. The boys were also ready and started off immediately in the automobile.