gathered at the usual open space, while from the doors of several
hangars mechanics were silently rolling out machines.

Each aviator gave a few comprehensive looks and touches to his own
plane, just to reassure himself that things were all right. Then came
a brief moment or two of silent waiting. There were no, spectators.
Even the rest of the men at the aerodrome did not appear. This was
according to orders.

Out in front stood Captain Byers, attended by Blaine and Erwin, talking
in low, indistinct tones. Finally Byers looked at his watch.

"Time's up, I guess. Do your best, you two. You, Blaine, will veer to
the right as you approach the enemy trenches. You, sir," to Orris,
"will draw to the left. Your squads will follow their respective
leaders. Should you meet opposition before you reach the balloons,
don't flinch. Pour on more speed. Don't signal unless necessary but
obey signals when given. Au revoir, lads! Don't come back until you
have delivered the goods."

Back went the Sergeant and Corporal, each to his own machine, which
headed a short double line holding six planes, or a dozen in all.

At a quiet signal the leaders rose, spiraling into the upper darkness.
Presently all had vanished, zigzagging in an easterly direction. About
this time there came a sudden blue flare as a solitary rocket shot
upward from beyond the grove of trees that that marked the landing
place within the enclosed area that formed this aerodrome.

Instantly Byers was on the qui vive, he being nearest the point