going to be an open competition. And, let me tell you, amateurs
have done as much, if not more, than the professionals, to advance
and improve aviation. Why, as a matter of fact, we're all amateurs.
We are learning something new every day. The art, or business, of
flying is too new to have in it anything but amateurs. Don't let
that stop you, Dick."

"Well, I'll think about it," said the young millionaire.

Dick obtained some detailed information, and entry blanks for the
government prize contest, and a little later announced to his chums:

"Well, fellows, in view of what Mr. Vardon said about amateurs,
maybe I will have a try for that prize. It will give us an object,
instead of merely flying aimlessly about. And if I should win,
wouldn't I have the laugh on dad! Yes, I'll make a try for it!" he
added.

"And we'll help you!" cried Paul.

"And I'll make a good story of it," promised Larry Dexter.

"I guess we'd better get the airship first," suggested Innis, dryly.

"Oh, I'll look after that," promised his aviator cousin.

The days that followed were busy ones at Kentfield Academy. A
course of instruction was arranged concerning the making and flying
of airships. In the former Mr. Vardon was the chief lecturer, as
he had had more practical experience in building the aircraft than