“In the same way,” explained Alan, “we would have to add five hours to our clock time going east. That is,” he added edging forward in his enthusiasm, “if we left New York at two o’clock in the afternoon, instead of reaching London seventeen hours later or at seven in the morning, the clocks would be striking noon when we got there. Oh, we’ve figured all that out many times.”
“That being true,” resumed the managing editor, “and this marvelous annihilation of space and time being at last a possibility, as I conceive it, I have decided that the Herald ought to assist in announcing the fact to the world by giving a practical illustration of what may some day be a commonplace.”
“You mean the Herald wants to share in the glory of our ocean flight if we make it?” asked Ned, his brows knitted.
“I do,” was the response. “You boys have the airship that can do this and I think you have the daring to try it. If you do it with no other purpose than to show that a flight across the Atlantic is a possibility, you will get for it glory and fame—both empty rewards. Cooperate with the Herald and I will see that your success brings you not only fame but substantial pecuniary reward. The Herald is prepared to pay you, not a reasonable sum but an extravagant reward.”
“What if we are satisfied with fame alone?” asked Ned.
“It will not be less because you act for the Herald.”
“What is there in it for your paper?” asked practical Alan.
“Let me finish my proposition,” continued the editor drawing his chair forward into the half-circle of alert boys. “By the way, the Ocean Flyer is finished and ready for flight at any time, I take it?”
“Practically so,” answered Alan guardedly.
“This is Thursday, June 17. One week from to-day King George V will be crowned King of England. It will be a ceremony that will attract attention throughout the civilized and savage world. As a news story, it is an event to test the news-gathering ability of the greatest newspaper. The dramatic repetition, on a modern stage, of feudal forms and priestly rites, may never again be repeated. The Herald’s best writers are already in London. Our photographers are now there to graphically illustrate the unique picture of royal pomp and power. It is the aim of the Herald on this occasion, as on all others, to present a better story, a fresher narrative and more perfect pictures of this event than any other newspaper in the world.”