“The idea is just crazy enough that it might work,” Wells said slowly.
“See here! You’re overlooking one point—an important one,” said Wells. “How are you going to protect your money? You’ll have to keep it dry.”
“I can get you a waterproof container,” the pilot offered quickly.
“And I can use it to protect the films after I get them,” added Flash. “Sorenson may be decent enough to put me off in a boat so I can contact the plane for the return trip. If he doesn’t, I’ll jump.”
“We’ll have to arrange an exact schedule,” Dave French declared. “How long will you need aboard the ship?”
“Give me three quarters of an hour from the time I first jump,” Flash decided. “That ought to be long enough.”
“A man can drown in thirty seconds,” murmured Wells gloomily. “But if you’re willing to try it, I shouldn’t kick.”
A waterproof container was quickly found. Then Dave French speeded up the motors, and the big seaplane scooted along the water. The waves were fairly heavy. Several times before flying speed was attained, the ship was thrown a little way into the air, but each time the pilot minimized the stall by pushing the stick forward. In a moment the plane took off smoothly and climbed.
Flash transferred his money to the waterproof container which he pinned securely inside his shirt. He divested himself of shoes and coat, but decided not to use the life-belt which the pilot had procured for him. He was afraid it might check his fall into the sea too suddenly, thus adding to the shock of impact.
The plane flew steadily eastward, sighting small sailing boats and larger vessels. Presently, Dave French throttled down, and pointed to a large steamship which could be seen some distance away.
Flash’s pulse quickened and a queer feeling came into the pit of his stomach. His plan had seemed simple back on land. But now, peering down at the ruffled surface of the water far below, he realized what a small speck a swimmer must appear to a lookout stationed on the _Belmonia_.
“Better give it up,” admonished Joe Wells, with a worried frown.
Flash shook his head and, feeling of his money to be certain it was securely fastened, signaled Dave French that he was ready.
The plane drove steadily on and circled the _Belmonia_ twice. Flash and Joe waved, but the only response they received was from a few of the passengers. Obviously, the captain of the vessel had no intention of lowering a boat so they might board.