he evinced no great astonishment. In fact he seemed to be thinking
deeply, and on some subject not connected with aeronautics. Tom
noticed the abstraction of his father, and shook his head. Clearly the
aged inventor was not his usual self.

As for Ned Newton his delight knew no bounds, At first he was a bit
apprehensive as the big ship went higher and higher, and swung about,
but he soon lost his fear, and enjoyed the experience as much as did
Tom. The young inventor was busy helping Mr. Sharp manage the
machinery, rudders-planes and motor.

A flight of several miles was made, and Tom was wishing they might pay
another visit to the Rocksmond Seminary, but Mr. Sharp, after
completing several evolutions, designed to test the steering qualities
of the craft, put back home.

"We'll land in the meadow and try rising by the planes alone," he
said. In this evolution it was deemed best for Mr. Swift and Ned to
alight, as there was no telling just how the craft would behave. Tom's
father was very willing to get out, but Ned would have remained in,
only for the desire of his friend.

With the two propellers whirring at a tremendous speed, and all the
gas out of the aluminum container, the Red Cloud shot forward, running
over the level ground of the meadow, where a starting course had been
laid out.

"Clear the track!" cried Mr. Sharp, as he saw the crowd closing up in
front of him. The men, boys, several girls and women made a living
lane. Through this shot the craft, and then, when sufficient momentum