repressed agitation. If Lafe had been less se1f-conscious he would
have understood and doubtless felt flattered.

As it was, he turned to Bangs, the Montana lad, now also seated in his
pilot's place, with Avella on the other side saying something. He
heard Bangs reiterate:

"Oh, sure, Miss Vella! We'll be careful -- very careful -- you bet!
I'm only too anxious to get back with Orry and see more of you two
girls. I say, Senator," to the father now looking approvingly on,
"this lost pilot is one of our best. He's a turnip -- a real joker!
We can't go back on him."

"I guess you are right, Mr. Bangs. If you and your friends do return
to us, I will see that you all have leave to run back to Paris and at
least take dinner with us at our hotel."

By this time the two young nurses were standing back, watching the
scene with the frank mien that American girls view something which they
regret, yet at the same time admire. Then up came Captain Byers
hurriedly, calling out:

"Are you lads going? That's plucky! I was about to dispatch some one.
We cannot afford to lose Erwin. He's too valuable, and I know he'd do
the same by you!"

"You bet, Captain!" This from Buck as his machine trundled off,
propelled by two mechanics until it rose. "That was bully the way you
busted that chap in the tank. He might have got me, else."