I'll stay awake and keep a look out for anything happening. You
see, I had quite a snooze up there in the air."

Dave made a comfortable couch by spreading out some of the wraps
found in the accommodation basket. It was after ten o'clock when he
woke up. He insisted on Hiram taking a turn on the couch.

"Can't do it. Not a bit sleepy," declared Hiram.

"Well, you can try it while I'm gone," suggested Dave.

"Oh, going somewhere?"

"Yes, to the town. I want to make a few inquiries as to the country
around here and ahead of us, and I may wire Mr. Randolph."

"All right, go ahead," replied Hiram. "I'll see that everything is
kept trim and safe about the machine."

Dave visited Millville, and posted himself as to certain
geographical points in which he was interested. He also sent a
brief dispatch to the Interstate people. Provided with some
railroad maps, and some fresh rolls from a bakery, he started out to
rejoin his chum.

He found Hiram busy burnishing up every bit of metal about the
Monarch II. They had their noon lunch. On his way back from town
Dave' had noticed a little brook. He was telling Hiram about it,
and they were discussing a plan of a plunge and a swim, when Hiram,
facing the point where the pit began, sprang suddenly to his feet."