I think I know just what caused my sudden descent though, and I'll take
care it doesn't happen again."

David then began a minute examination of his damaged pet, and soon located
the trouble. His friends listened, deeply interested, as he explained the
principles of aviation, and showed them how he had carried out his own
ideas in constructing his aëroplane. Grace, who had a taste for mechanics,
asked all sorts of questions, until Hippy asked her if she intended
building an aëroplane of her own.

"I may," replied Grace, laughing. "You know that girls have as much chance
at the big things of the world to-day, as boys."

"Well, if you do, let me know," responded Hippy, "and I'll write an epic
poem about you that will make the world sit up and take notice."

"Then I am assured of fame beforehand," laughed Grace.

"Look!" said Nora suddenly. "Who are those people coming across the
orchard? Doesn't that look like Julia Crosby and some of her crowd?"

"Yes," exclaimed Grace, "it is, and Miriam is with them."

"Then help me get my aëroplane into the shed quickly," exclaimed David.
"You know that the Crosby girl is not a favorite with me." Then he added
half to himself, "I don't see why Miriam insists on going around with her
so much."

The boys lost no time in getting the aëroplane into the house, David
slammed the doors, and triumphantly turned the key in the lock just as