his share of the work, and was on his way to get a brief leave of
absence from his captain. At the entrance to the shed he came face
to face with Mr. Vardon and Jack.

"Oh, so you're the professional aviator they spoke of," said Larson,
with a sneer in his tone.

"Yes, I'm here," replied Mr. Vardon, quietly. "I did not expect to
see you here, though."

"The surprise is mutual," mocked the other. "I read about your
failure. I suppose now, you will quit fooling with that gyroscope
of yours, and give my method a trial."

"I never will. I am convinced that I am right, and that you are
wrong."

"You're foolish," was the retort.

Jack Butt stepped forward and whispered in the ear of his employer,
so that at least Dick heard what he said.

"I believe HE did it!" were the tense words of the machinist.



CHAPTER VI
DICK'S FIRST FLIGHT