uccess. A form of
agreement was drawn up to protect the interests of all parties, and Dick
gave Herr Doodlebrod a check for five hundred dollars, taking a mortgage
on the machine as security, a proposition the inventor himself
suggested.

"Now I go to New York for der engine," he announced.

Three days later a letter arrived from the German. He said he was having
some difficulties in getting the engine made, but expected to be back at
Hamilton Corners in a week.

"You'll have to hustle, Dick, to win that prize before the year
expires," said his father, with a smile. "Aren't you getting anxious?"

"A little, but I guess it will all come out right. It won't take long to
install the engine once we get it."

At the end of the week the German arrived with the engine. He was
enthusiastic over it, and declared the government prize was already his.
He had communicated with a representative of the War Department, who
promised to be on hand when the test was made, to see if Herr
Doodlebrod's machine answered the requirements.

"But haf no fears," boasted the inventor to Dick. "It vill, und ve vill
reap der reward."

"I hope so," answered Dick. "I haven't much time left."

There were several delays in getting the ship in shape for the decisive
test. Herr Doodlebrod was not satisfied with one of the rudders and
ordered a new one made. Dick urged haste, as he had in mind the year
limit fixed in his mother's will.

"Easy, easy," counseled the German. "I haf spent fifteen years on der
machine; vot iss a few days?"

"Much, to me," said Dick.

"Do not vorry, my young friend," comforted the inventor. "You shall haf
made der finest investment vot effer vos. I, Herr Doodlebrod, say so.
Dot uncle of yours shall nefer get you." For Dick had told the German
about the conditions of the will.

But, in spite of all their haste, it was some time longer ere the
machine was ready for the test. The new motor had been put in, and,
though it was not tried in the air, worked perfectly. The propeller
revolved twice as fast, and this, the inventor said, meant twice as much
speed.

"To-morrow ve haf der test," announced the German one evening, as he
completed the last change on the airship.

"Will the government official be here?" asked Dick.

"He has promised. I go to bed early dot my nerves may be in good shape.
Haf no fears, I vill fly, und fly far. Der requirements vill all be met;
I, Herr Doodlebrod, say so."

True to his promis