Hiram knew all about the monoplane dummy or the aerocycle with
treadle power for practice work which he had operated under old
Grimshaw's direction. As to the practical running of a biplane
aloft, however, that was something for him to learn. He was keenly
alive to every maneuver that Dave executed, and he stored in his
mind every new point he noticed as the Racer seemed fairly started
on its way.

"Keep me posted, Dave," spoke the willing Hiram. "If anything
happens I want to know what you expect me to do."

"I don't intend to have anything happen if I can help it, Hiram,"
replied Dave. "This is a famous start."

"It's not half as bad as I thought it would be," said Hiram.

The rain had changed into a fine mist, but the breeze continued
choppy and strong at times. Dave had gone over the course with Mr.
King in The Aegis twice in the daytime, and had an accurate idea of
the route. However, he had landmarks to follow. What guided Dave
were the lights of the various towns on the route to Kewaukee and
railway signals. These were dimly outlined by a glow only at times,
but Dave as he progressed felt that he was keeping fairly close to
his outlined programme.

Hiram chuckled and warbled, as he knew from Dave's manner and the
way the Baby Racer acted that his friend had it under full control.
Our hero attempted no fancy flying nor spurts of swiftness. Up to
the end of the first hour the flight had proven far less difficult