“I can understand that, sir,” cried Frank Reade, Jr., with a pleasant laugh. “You are welcome on board the Kite.”
He shook hands with Harding most warmly. But the gold seeker continued to gaze about the air-ship wonderingly.
“I have heard much of you and your inventions, Mr. Reade,” he said, “but I never dreamed that your air-ship was such a beautiful and wonderful machine.”
“Indeed,” said Frank, pleasantly; “if you desire I will shortly show you about the ship and explain to you its details and manner of construction.”
“Indeed, I shall be delighted.”
“But you are fatigued. Come into the cabin and have a glass of wine, and tell us how you came in that dangerous position.”
“I will do that with all pleasure,” replied Harding.
He followed Frank Reade, Jr., into the cabin of the Kite.
This was situated amidships, and was a most beautifully furnished saloon.
Frank offered a chair to his visitor, and said: