On this trip Captain Johnson and Engineer Freeman joined Jimmy in the passenger list. Billy was at the wheel and Henri at the motor end.
This was the order until the sea-plane finally took to its floats in Dover harbor.
“You have won your certificates as English air navigators. My word and my hand on it.”
The captain spoke the word but he used his hand to slap the boys between the shoulders.
“Now, my young submarinist, I don’t suppose you’re going to let us teach you the business.”
“I guess not, captain; I think I prefer the other game, though you’ve got a good one. I hate to quit the band, though, I tell you.”
Jimmy looked for a minute like he was going to cry.
Henri and Billy made a show of being cheerful to help Jimmy out, but it was not much of a success.
“Look alive, youngsters, you’ll be running together in Dover right along.”
The captain was a good sympathizer.