Matt explained about the purchase of the air ship. As Helen listened, her look of wonder changed to one of distress.
"I am sorry!" she said, with a pang of deepest regret. "I know where dad and the rest have gone, though, and if you wanted to follow them, you might be able to get the air ship back."
The information startled all three of the boys.
"You know that?" cried Matt, his face brightening.
"Yes. They are going to cross the lake to Grand Haven. There's a man in Grand Haven that dad knows. His name is Ochiltree, Dave Ochiltree. Dad is going to see him. I don't know where the rest will be with the Hawk, but no doubt you could find out from Ochiltree."
"It's a clue, and a good one!" said Matt. "We will follow it, Helen."
"Aye, that we will!" exclaimed Ferral.
"You bed you!" averred Carl. "Sooch a goot luck as dot iss vat ve vas looking for. Meppy ve follow der clue und get der air ship pack, den make anoder shtart for New York, hey?"
An idea came suddenly to Matt. Leaping to Carl, he grabbed him by the arm.
"The Eagle," said he, speaking rapidly, "has chased the Hawk before. Why not call on Hamilton Jerrold?"