Ralph, who had gained control of his emotions, busied himself loading a dozen parachute flares into the forward cockpit.
By 11:15 the Good News had been refueled for the flight to Auburn.
“What are the latest reports?” asked Tim.
“The ice is piling up every hour,” said the managing editor. “People in the village have started to move their belongings and they expect the town will be swept away before morning.”
“Have they been warned to watch for us and get in the clear when we start dropping the bombs?”
“Everyone has been ordered to be in the clear by midnight. Before they leave they will build large fires along the bank of the river to guide you.”
“That’s a good idea,” said Tim.
“All set,” he called to Ralph, who had taken his place in the forward cockpit, squeezed in between high explosive bombs and parachute flares.
“All ready,” replied Ralph. “Only take it easy. I don’t want to be part of another explosion today.”
“Don’t worry,” said Tim. “I’ll handle the ship like we were carrying a basket of Easter eggs.”