They started for the aviator's headquarters. Half the distance
covered, they met him coming in search of them. Mr. King looked
pale and worried. Dave knew that something had happened to upset
him.

"I'm glad you're back, Dashaway," said Mr. King. "Grimshaw told me
you had been called to headquarters by the Interstate people. I
should have wired you to return right away if you had not returned.
Something very important has transpired."

"About Mr. Dale--about my father's old friend, Mr. King?" asked
Dave.

"That's it exactly. Bad news, Dashaway, I'm sorry to say,"
announced the aviator in a very serious tone.





CHAPTER XIV

THE MISSING AIRCRAFT


The aviator led the way back to the Aegis hangar. Dave saw that Mr.
King was not inclined to explain any further until they were off the
public course, so he asked no more questions, for the present. Dave
had a good deal to tell himself. His mind had been full of it all