While in the balloon house, the air ship was not moored with ropes, but was weighted down with sand bags hung to the under side of the car. A pull of a lever would release all the sand bags.
There was a supply of gasoline in the shed, and also a small amount of oil. Matt filled the gasoline tank and the oil tank, saw that all ropes belonging to the car were safely stowed, and that propeller and steering rudder were working properly.
By the time he had finished his survey, Ferral had got through with his breakfast and had joined him.
"See anything of Carl, Dick?" asked Matt.
"He wasn't in sight when I came in," replied Ferral.
"Probably the chief wasn't at his office and Carl had to go to his house. He'll be along pretty soon, though. It's a fine morning for the start. Hardly a breath of air stirring."
Matt stowed his maps and compass in a little locker close to the driver's chair.
"We've got to have a compass, eh?" grinned Ferral.
"It's just as well to have one," said Matt.
"And charts! Keelhaul me, mate, but this is just like putting to sea in a ship."