Dick rather wished he could have gone in the other machine, for he
had no liking for the surly lieutenant with the captain. But Dick
had been assigned to this craft, and military rules prevailed at
Kentfield. You did as you were told without question.

Dick took his place, and watched with interest the operations of
Captain Grantly and his lieutenant. Whatever one thought of the
latter, personally, it must be admitted that he knew his business
when it came to airships. In some matters even his superior
officer, Captain Grantley, deferred to the judgment of Larson.

"You won't have to do a thing," went on the lieutenant to Dick.
"Just sit still, and, above all, no matter what happens, don't touch
any of the wheels or levers."

"No, that might wreck us," added the captain.

"We'll manipulate the machine, at the same time telling you, and
showing you, how to do it. In time you will run it yourself, with
us looking on, and I believe it is the intention of Colonel Masterly
to have you cadets finally operate a machine on your own
responsibility."

"I hope I may learn to do so," spoke Dick, for I'm going to have a
craft of my own."

"Are you indeed?" asked the captain, interestedly. "It's rather an
expensive pleasure--not like automobiling."

"Well, luckily or not, I happen to have plenty of money," said Dick.