t in closer, hoping in that way to
make up a little of his lost ground. Very well, let him, if so be he
chose to take chances.

The Bird boys had the better machine, there could now be no doubt of
that in Frank's mind. And as they had been able to gain while on the
forward leg, the same conditions could be made to prevail when on the
homeward stretch.

One thing alone troubled Frank. He realized that it was folly in them
to think of carrying out the part of the conditions that called for
three circles around the peak of Old Thunder Top before heading for the
high school campus on the last stage of the race.

And after they were well on the way toward home, he meant to hail Percy
to propose that they combine to cut that risky part of the performance
out. A joint agreement would settle it; and doubtless the judges would
hail that decision as the part of prudence. Human lives were worth
more than empty honors; and while the gathered thousands might be
cheated out of a thrilling sight as they stood and looked toward
far-off Thunder Top, still few would complain.

Would Percy agree?

That was where Frank felt doubtful. He knew the nature of the other
only too well. Perhaps Percy would flaunt it in his face that he was a
coward! Possibly he would declare that as for him, he meant to circle
the mountain top those three times no matter if the storm did catch
him; and having done his duty, would snatch the victory from his
weak-hearted rival.

Now the liberty pole loomed up half a mile ahead. But the next clap of
thunder was certainly louder than any preceding one had been. Still,
the storm would be behind them in heading for home, and hence they
might keep ahead of it, if only they did not dally in the neighborhood
of Old Thunder Top.

Frank had settled down to the proper distance from the ground. Having
been here before he knew whether any obstacle would present itself in
making that swoop around the tall mast. Not for a single instant must
he allow his eyes to leave the object of his flight. Andy could
observe what was transpiring below but to the young pilot of the
biplane his only recollection would be a hazy one of a multitude of
upturned faces, a wilderness of fluttering handkerchiefs and flags
together with hats thrown into the air; and the whole accompanied by
stentorian cheers from thousands of throats.

With scarcely any perceptible slackening of his fearful speed the
leading aviator swept in a