A quick return was made to the Academy, those in the other airship being informed, by a signal, that all was now right. When the story of the queer landing was told, Dick was regarded as a hero by his companions. "Just think!" complained Paul, whimsically, "your first trip, and you have an accident and you don't get so much as a scratch." "Yes, but I got run over and knocked down by a pig," laughed Dick. "I'll take the scratches, please. No more pigs!" "And after that, are you still going to build an airship?" asked Innis. "I sure am! It's the greatest sensation in the world--aviation! I wouldn't miss it for a fortune. And I'm going to pull down that twenty thousand dollar prize; don't forget that, fellows." "Good luck!" wished Paul. In the days that followed there were many more airship flights, but no accidents of moment. Dick went up again several times, and at last was allowed to run the aeroplane himself, with the captain and lieutenant to coach him. Then only one officer went along, another cadet being taken up with Dick. And finally the day came when Dick was qualified to take the craft up alone, with two other cadets. He had graduated as a pilot of the air, and properly proud he was of the honor. "All you want now is experience," said Captain Grantly, as Dick came back after a successful flight with Paul and Innis. "And that takes time." Dick's two intimate chums also qualified as amateur pilots, and a number of other cadets were equally successful. The aviation course at Kentfield was very popular. Then came the end of the term, and the summer vacation was at hand. The last drills and guard-mounts were held. The graduation exercises were finished in a "blaze of glory." The Juniors gave a gay dance, at which Dick and his chums met the pretty girls whom they had seen at the dock that day. "And now for Hamilton Corners!" cried the young millionaire, when the Academy was formally closed for the term. "I want you fellows to come out with me, and watch my airship being built." Mr. Vardon had found he could not build for Dick at Kentfield the craft he wanted. It would take too long, and there were not the facilities. So he and his helper went to Hamilton Corners, to do the preliminary work. Dick and his chums were to follow as soon as school was over. Larry Dexter went back to New York, but promised to join Dick in time for the flight for the big government prize. "Well, Dad, how are you?" cried Dick, as he greeted his father at the family mansion in Hamilton Corners. "Fine, my boy! There's no use asking how YOU are, I can see you are fine!" "Did Vardon and Jack get here? Have they started work?" Dick wanted to know. "Yes, I did just as you asked me to in your letter. I let them have the run of the place, and they've been busy ever since they came. I hope you are successful, Dick, but, I have my doubts." "I'll show you!" cried the cadet enthusiastically. CHAPTER IX UNCLE EZRA'S VISIT