ased smile; for who would not
have felt a thrill of pride at such a remarkable evidence of confidence
in his abilities. This gentleman knew every famous flier of the day;
and that he should rate the Bird boys as among those who were "called"
was a compliment worth having.

"I'm afraid we'll have to disappoint you, Mr. Marsh," he said. "In the
first place our fathers would not want us to become public birdmen; and
in the second we expect to attend school for several years yet before
branching out. No, please forget it. I believe in the merits of the
aeroplane I've been using. The new features are wonderful; and as long
as I continue to fly I expect to stick by that make. But neither of us
are professionals. And that will have to end it."

Which it of course did. Mr. Marsh, much against his will, was
compelled to leave Bloomsbury without having signed the Bird boys for
his enterprising company; but at least he had the satisfaction of
knowing that no rival concern could succeed any better than he had.

Just as Frank had said, Percy's injuries were not serious enough to
keep him shut up more than a few days. Many times did Frank and Andy
have to narrate the entire story of that hazardous feat connected with
the race. They never made themselves out heroes; but most people,
knowing their modesty, could read between the lines, and understood
that Percy Carberry and Sandy owed much to the Bird boys.

Of course such a backset could not long deter Percy from flying. His
rich and indulgent mother would supply the cash for another biplane in
due season. But it was to be hoped that his experiences might teach
him more caution.

Frank himself was resolved never again to be tempted into risking his
life unnecessarily simply because a reckless rival threatened to dub
him a coward.

As the Bird boys were thoroughly imbued with the aviator spirit it
might easily be set down as positive that as time went on they would
continue to study the science of flying, and take advantage of every
opportunity that presented itself for indulging in their favorite sport.

And we shall certainly hope to meet them again in the near future, when
possibly other of their stirring adventures call for a new volume
concerning the Bird boys.

***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE AIRPLANE BOYS AMONG THE CLOUDS***

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