“It is settled, then,” concluded the professor, unconsciously authoritative. “You will come to my home, and together we will supervise the completion of the Sphere.”
“But the Sphere—,” began Robert, surprized by the professor’s quick decision.
“We will have it conveyed to my estate, where the light and space will be much better; and where I can look after you better, my boy.” His face softened. Ah, an old bachelor had not all the advantages. What would he not give to have a son like this!
Something about Robert’s hesitation reminded him abruptly of an important consideration.
“I am forgetting,” he apologized. “Your interest must be fully protected. We will draw up a contract whereby full possession of the Sphere and all its equipment, now and always, will remain yours. I will undertake to complete it, defraying all expenses, in return for which I ask the use of the Sphere in a flight to Mars and back if possible.”
“That is more than fair,” Robert replied, feeling ashamed of a shortlived, though natural, apprehension.
4
Robert found Professor Palmer’s homestead vastly more cheerful than his own gloomy quarters.
The Sphere was placed in a large, well-lighted barn, which had been carefully prepared for its new purpose. The barred windows were frosted to defeat the curiosity of possible busybodies, and reliable locks put on the heavy doors.
Removal of the Sphere from its original quarters presented difficulties, because no provision had been made for its exit. It had been constructed piece by piece inside the four walls which housed it so long. It was necessary to hew an opening through the wall, to the acute curiosity of the neighbors.