"Shall we sail to-day, or accept further hospitalities of New York?" asked Dr. Jones of the company. The unanimous decision was that they sail immediately.
The mayor was telephoned that they would sail within one or two hours, the wind being favorable. A few moments later that gentleman appeared in the parlor where they were sitting and said hastily:
"My dear Doctor, we cannot let you go to-day. We have a splendid program laid out for you, and our people will be greatly disappointed if you do not stop at least another day. Besides, great excursions by steamers and rail are expected to-morrow. We cannot let you off for two or three days yet."
"My dear sir, nothing would give me greater pleasure than to remain as long as you desire. But my commands are peremptory from Washington to report there at the earliest practicable moment. So I really have no option in the matter, and must sail this very morning," replied Dr. Jones.
"Such being the case, Doctor, I am too good a citizen to urge you to disobey orders. We will say no more about it, but thank you for the pleasure you have given us, and wish you 'Bon Voyage.'"
"You may do better than that, sir. We should be exceedingly pleased to have you and your family accompany us to Washington. We can promise you the sensation and pleasure of your lifetime," returned the Doctor.
"O do come, sir!" cried Mrs. Jones. "Bring your family and give them the greatest treat this world affords."
"I will consult them, immediately. But I fear that they are poor sailors, and can hardly be persuaded to venture a trip in an air-ship."
"I will see that they do not suffer from seasickness," said the Doctor. "Prevail upon them to come if possible, for I know you will never regret it. Now shall we remain here, or meet you at the globe?"
"Remain here, please, and I will return with all possible expedition."
A half hour later he returned with his wife and two daughters, the latter being stylish, lovely girls of about Mattie's age. All three were in a state of more or less nervousness and trepidation at the idea of a sail through the sky, and yet they could not resist the desire to go.
"O Mrs. Jones! Miss Bronson! don't you feel awfully frightened away up there, thousands of feet from the earth?" asked one of the girls.