For a few moments a deep silence ensued between the three, for they were sizing each other up keenly.
The Mexican observed that Frank was a fine-looking young man, with an athletic figure, clad in a traveling costume. His handsome face showed a good disposition and a high order of courage.
Ramey was the person with him, and he held a violin, upon which he had been playing a lively tune.
Finally the Mexican spoke.
“You are Frank Reade, Jr., I believe?”
“I am,” admitted the inventor, “and you——”
“Juan Zamora, the alcalde, or head man of the town of Santa Cruz, Mexico, on the Gulf coast.”
“I am pleased to know you, sir. What do you want of me?”
“A week ago I read an account of this extraordinary air-ship, and I came at once to Readestown to try to hire the machine.”
“I regret to say I will not let it.”