"Only a few weeks, sir." Jimmy became spokesman. "We are in training at R——. We hope to go to the front soon."
"You are eager for a taste of the fighting, I suppose." The aviator smiled. "That seems to be the prevailing spirit among the American soldiers. We of France admire it."
"France has set us an example, sir, that we glory in following. The whole world knows what France has done in this war."
Jimmy's face lighted into glowing enthusiasm.
"I thank you, in the name of my country."
The aviator's hand lightly touched his forehead in salute.
Instantly seven hands went up in prompt return of the salute.
"Now let's drop the form and ceremony act," proposed Jack Twinkleton. "I'll salute you, Emile, when I have to, but I'll be blamed if I will when I can get out of it. I've a great deal of respect for you up in the air, and some when we're down on the ground. Don't forget that, will you?"
"I will endeavor to remember." The Frenchman showed white teeth in an indulgent smile. "It will be, perhaps, a trifle difficult," he slyly added.