Pomp now lacked the co-operation of Barney in clearing the snow from the deck of the airship and its rigging.
But Frank and Gaston lent their services in this. Soon the deck was quite clear and ship-shape.
Then the rotascope was raised and the wings expanded.
The machinery was tried to see that no harm had come to it. Then all was in readiness for the start.
But just as Frank was about to enter the pilot-house a wild cry escaped Pomp’s lips.
“Fo’ de Lor’ sakes, Marse Frank!” he screamed, “jes’ cast yo’ eye ober yender!”
Frank did so. The sight which rewarded his gaze was a thrilling one.
Painfully clambering over an icy ridge near were two men. As they reached its summit and were in full view of the airship one of them shouted:
“Help! Help!”
“Great heavens!” was Frank’s wild cry, “that is Barney!”