“I see,” nodded Andy, “and you come from a wonderful people.”
“We strive to learn,” replied his companion. “That is why I am here. I was sent to this country to study aeronautics. Besides that, the science has a peculiar attraction for me. My father was chief kite maker to the family of the Mikado.”
“Is it possible?” said Andy.
“I therefore have an absorbing interest in your airmen and their daring work. You must know that we make wonderful kites in my home country.”
“I have heard something of it,” said Andy.
“Two hundred years ago many of the principles now used in your airships were used in our kite flying, only we never tried to fly ourselves.”
“We have a gentleman up at our camp who would be just delighted to talk with you,” declared Andy enthusiastically. “He is an inventor, a Mr. Morse.”
“I should like to meet him,” said the Japanese.
“Then come right along with me,” invited Andy cordially; “only, say, please, don’t mention the fix you found me in.”
“It shall be so,” declared his companion.