"All right, here goes! Come along with me, boys."
Although somewhat disappointed, the captain received the announcement of the boys' decision pleasantly and took occasion to compliment them on their loyalty to country and principles, declaring at the same time that he would be glad to aid them in any way possible.
With lighter hearts now that their decision had been made, the boys repaired to the deck to watch the approach of the coast of France. Not long afterward they were gazing at the scenes in the harbor of Havre and were greatly interested in noting the differences between the customs of that place and those of New York.
Due to the friendly assistance of the captain, their belongings were speedily passed through the Customs office and the boys were free to proceed at once with their task of assembling the Grey Eagle.
Ned secured the services of a carter to haul the boxes to a spot favorable for their purpose and after lunch at a restaurant near the wharf the boys superintended the work of loading.
By mid-afternoon the boys viewed with satisfaction the completed aircraft which had been taken to a field a short distance outside the city limits. An interested crowd of boys hovered near to watch.
Just as Ned announced everything ready a motor drew up near their position, discharging the captain as its only passenger. He was greeted with enthusiasm by all four boys and asked to inspect their work.
"I have some news for you," announced the captain after proclaiming his astonishment at the results so speedily obtained.
"Hurray!" shouted Jimmie. "News is always welcome."
"It is this," went on the captain. "The Nymph came into harbor about noon today. She evidently made good time across the Atlantic."