Tom Swift and his Airship

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1910 edition. Excerpt: ...go to the stern," and, going over to the gas generator, Mr. Sharp started it so as to force more vapor into the red aluminum container. This had the effect of rendering the airship more bouyant, and it tugged and strained harder than ever at the ropes. "Good-by, Tom," called Mr. Swift, reaching up to shake hands with his son. "Drop me a line when you get a chance. "Oh, Tom, do be careful," implored Mrs. Baggert, her kind face showing her anxiety. "May I kiss you good-by?" "Of course," answered the young inventor, though the motherly housekeeper had not done this since he was a little chap. She had to stand on a soap box, which Eradicate brought in order to reach Tom's face, and, when she had kissed him she said: "Oh, I'm so worried! I just know you'll be killed, risking your lives in that terrible airship!" "Ha! Not a very cheerful view to take, madam," observed Mr. Damon. "Don't hold that view, I beg of you. Bless my eyelashes, but you'll see us coming home, covered with glory and star dust." "I'm sure I hope so," answered Mrs. Baggert, laughing a little in spite of herself. The last ropes were cast off. Good-bys were shouted as the airship shot into the air, and Mr. Sharp started the motor, to warm it up before the propellers were thrown into gear. The twenty cylinders began exploding with a terrific racket. as the muffler was open, and Tom, looking down, saw Boomerang awaken with a jump. The mule was so frightened that he started off on a dead run, swinging the rickety, old wagon along behind him. Eradicate Sampson, who had been feeling his muscle since he discovered what he thought was his marvelous strength, saw what was happening. "Whoa, dar, Boomerang!" he shouted. Then, as the tailboard of the wagon swung past him, he reached out and...