"Yes," nodded Dave, I got a hurry call wire, and came on at once."

"Seen the manager?"

"Not yet. I drifted in here and lost myself among so many beauties.
I don't see the new hydro-aeroplane."

A quick shade came over the face of Dave's companion.

"No," he hesitatingly replied.

"Has it been shipped to Columbus yet?" inquired Dave.

"Why--that is, I guess I had better let the manager tell you about
the machine."

Dave noticed a singular constraint in the manner of his companion.

"Come along, I'll introduce you," volunteered the latter.

Dave accompanied his guide from the aerodrome. They passed several
large factory buildings. In their center was a small one story
brick structure labeled "Office."

Dave had never met the manager of the Interstate Company. He had
transacted all his business with the agent of the company and the
hydroplane expert. His companion led him past a row of desks
occupied by clerks and stenographers and into a neatly furnished
office.