Even to Hiram, daily in the past the companion of Dave Dashaway in his marvelous cloud-work, the aspect of the new machine was a revelation. Its progress was noiseless, its sweep sure and scientific. Within five minutes after the general ascent was made the boys had but to listen to the comments going on about them, to realize that on a popular vote Ariel II would be awarded the prize.
Some of the contesting pilots could not sustain a protracted flight, some of the machines did not work smoothly. The contest narrowed down to six, then to three. The Whirlwind showed great rapidity, but was erratic and shifty at volplane work and drift. Finally Valdec descended. Dave’s last competitor followed his example. The Ariel floated to anchor, buoyant as a swan gliding to rest.
Fifteen minutes later the official marker ascended the little platform on which rested a great ruled-off blackboard. He set at work on event number one.
Hiram’s eyes were snapping. Mr. Brackett drew a long breath of mingled assurance and suspense.
“Hurrah!” yelled Bruce Beresford irrepressibly. Hiram flung his cap up in the air. Mr. Brackett beamed on everybody, and the crowd went wild.
“Event No. 1—Winner, Machine number five,” the man wrote. That was the awarded numeral of the Brackett entry. “Pilot—Dashaway. Points—thirty.”
Thus read the chronicle of the initial event on the big programme, awarding to Dave Dashaway the first victory of the meet.
CHAPTER XX
BEATEN