There
were handshakes, mutual congratulations and quick explanations. The
Arrow, the property of a wealthy amateur balloonist, was attempting
to sail, from the Pacific to the Atlantic and was, so far, beating
the best calculation of her owner. In reaching the desired height
that morning, however, much ballast had been used and the
possibility of a renewed supply was jumped at.
"These extra provisions were packed with the idea of possibly using
them as ballast and we don't really need them. And, so," they
explained to the boys, "if you do you had better take them and give
us sand."
The exchange was quickly made, and then, having stored their new
food supply safely on the bridge, they said hasty farewells.
Ned had scribbled this note on a page from his note book: "Major
Baldwin Honeywell, Annex, Chicago. By courtesy of Balloon Arrow.
Bourke, escort, killed by Indians. Search begins at once. Camp
established on plateau, second range Tunit Chas Mountains, thirty
miles due east Wilson's Peak. Greetings. Written 5,600 feet above
San Juan River, New Mexico.
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