Accordingly, Frank addressed himself to the arduous task of getting away
without any mishap. He, as well as Andy, had long since learned that it
is the part of wisdom to gain the good will of a curious crowd. In that
manner many friends are raised up, who are only too willing to lend a
helping hand.
He quickly selected half a dozen fellows who looked as though they might
be of more than ordinary importance among the boys of Rock-ford. These
he particularly picked out, and asked them to assist the police officer
to keep the crowd back until they could get a good start, at the same
time explaining that a clear passage would have to be made ahead, and
that anyone getting in the way might not only be seriously injured, but
wreck the machine as well.
Proud to have been thus honored, the six boys proceeded to push back the
gaping crowd and when Frank gave the word, also assisted in starting the
hydroplane on its way.
A salvo of loud cheers rang out when they started, and this burst into a
furious chorus as the well balanced aeroplane presently left the ground
to start upward into the air.
"I'm glad that's over with," said Andy, when they were safely off the
ground, and the shouts of Rockford's enthusiastic population began to
grow fainter in the distance.
"Same here," echoed Frank, "you never know what will happen when a crowd
is pushing all around you, every fellow eager to just say he had hold of
a flying machine.
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