be."

"I would like to be the first one to win such a triumph," said Dave.

"Yes, the first one gets the fame," said the airman. "The prize,
too. If such an experiment was rationally started I believe the
profession and its backers would put up a small fortune to go to the
successful winner. Now, boys, I have great confidence in you. What
has held me back has been the lack of capital."

"Say, Mr. King," broke in Hiram impetuously, "I've got nearly thirty
dollars saved up, and Dave--"

"It will take bigger amounts than we three put together can earn
just to get the plans of the giant airship on paper," said Mr. King,
with an indulgent smile at his loyal young friends. "If I go to any
regular aero promoters they will want all the proceeds. I can raise
a few thousand dollars myself and do as much more among my friends
but, all put together, the amount wouldn't make even a beginning."

"How much will it take, Mr. King?" asked Dave seriously.

"At least twenty-five thousand dollars."

"Whew!" whistled Hiram.

"It's no child's play. It's a big risk, and there's no doing it
half way," declared Mr. King. "Last night while I was planning over
it, a sudden idea came to me. Dashaway, you remember that fellow
who stole my watch and money and medal from you?"