The London manager took Ned’s hand.
“I wish you the best of luck,” he said soberly.
“Wish us all the highest speed,” exclaimed Ned with a smile. “We’ve got a job ahead of us that calls for it.”
With another good-bye all around Mr. Phillips clambered down the ladder and instantly it was drawn up with a bang.
“Won’t you gentlemen go into your rooms until we are under way?” asked Ned with something of authority in his voice.
As they did so each member of the crew went to his post. Alan and Buck took the starboard and port galleries and with insistent demands drove the spectators back. Again and again they yelled until all was clear about the Flyer.
“All clear forward,” called Alan at last.
“All clear below,” yelled Buck in turn.
Slowly the propellers began to move. Then faster until the great ship began to tremble.
“Good-bye,” came Mr. Phillips’ parting words.