“No, sir,” said Andy.
“I’m known all over the country as the Airship King.”
“I can believe that,” said Andy, “but, you see, I have never traveled far.”
“I’ve made it a business giving exhibitions at fairs and aero meets with this glider and with a dirigible balloon. Just now I’m drilling for a prize race—five thousand dollars.”
“That’s some money,” observed Andy, “and I guess you’ll win it.”
“I see you like me, and I like you,” said John Parks. “Suppose you help me win that prize? I need good loyal help around me, and the way you obey orders pleases me. I’ll make you an offer—your keep and ten dollars.”
“And I’ll be near the airship?” asked Andy eagerly. “And learn to run it?”
“Yes.”
“Oh, my!” cried the boy, almost lifted off his feet. “Mr. Parks, I can’t realize such good luck.”
“It’s yours for the choosing,” said the aeronaut.