"I say——"
But the words had hardly left his lips before the aeroplane was back on a level keel once more. At the same time a rasping, sliding sound was heard.
"Like to see how that was done?" asked Peggy, with a bewitching smile.
"Yes. By Jove, I thought we were over for an instant. But how——"
"That we shall be glad to show you when the United States government has contracted for a number of the Prescott aeroplanes," retorted Peggy.
The young officer bit his lip.
"Confound it," he thought, "is this chit of a girl making fun of me?"
Young officers have a high idea of their own dignity. Mr. Bradbury colored a bit with mortification. But Peggy quickly dispelled his temporary chagrin.
"You see," she explained, "it would never do for us to reveal all our secrets, would it? You agree with me, don't you?"
"Oh, perfectly. You are quite right. Still, I confess that you have aroused all my inquisitiveness."