It was necessary for McGlory, Twomley, and Burton to get away somewhat in advance of Matt, and to take up a position beyond the outskirts of the city on the Elgin road. At sharp eight-forty-five the motor car got away.
McGlory was usually in charge of the start during the aëroplane flights, but now Matt placed Carl in command. The importance of the position filled Carl with glory, and was correspondingly depressing to Ping, who really knew more about the aëroplane than Carl could have learned in a hundred years.
Carl and Ping were assisted by half a dozen stout canvasmen.
Before Matt took his seat, to the wonder of the crowd pressing against the guard ropes, he shook out a white robe and arranged it about him in such a manner as to leave his arms perfectly clear, but covering every part of his clothing.
After that he stepped on the footboard and dropped down in front of the motor.
The canvasmen, divided by Carl into two groups of three each, were placed behind the wings.
"All ready, Carl!" called Matt.
"Retty it iss!" shouted Carl.
The motor started merrily, the bicycle wheels began to turn, and the canvasmen to push.
Slowly the Comet gathered headway. Faster and faster it went, leaving the canvasmen behind; then, like a great bird, it soared into the air, followed by wild cheering.