“He’s safe,” observed Wells, taking a deep breath. “I hope he makes a fortune. A jump like that is worth it.”
The two photographers began to pack their cameras into carrying cases.
“By the way, what did you start to tell me about Albert Povy?” Flash inquired curiously.
“He was supposed to have been mixed up in shady espionage business a few months ago. I understand government operatives have kept a sharp eye on him.”
“And now he seems to be interested in Brooks’ parachute?”
“It looks that way. If Brooks has any sense he’ll steer clear of the fellow. Suppose we get down there, Flash.”
Together they began the dangerous descent. By the time they reached the base of the cliff, Bailey Brooks had walked back from the field, and was receiving the congratulations of the _News-Vue_ men.
As Flash and Joe added their praise, a tall, dark stranger crossed the open space to the sound truck.
“A beautiful jump, Mr. Brooks,” he praised. “You remember me, don’t you? My name is Povy—Albert Povy.”
“Yes, I remember you very well,” the jumper replied dryly. “Did I demonstrate what my ’chute could do?”
“You certainly did,” the man returned heartily. “It was amazing! I never would have believed it possible, if I hadn’t witnessed it with my own eyes. You know, we may be able to do business together, after all.”
A guarded expression came into Bailey Brooks’ steel gray eyes.
“Come over to my car,” invited Albert Povy. “We’ll talk.”
Flash and Joe Wells were closed out of the conversation. Swiftly the _News-Vue_ men loaded their equipment aboard the truck and prepared to leave.
“Listen, Flash,” said Joe as he climbed into the sound truck. “When you’re through at the _Ledger_ this afternoon, drop around at the _News-Vue_ offices. I want to talk with you.”
He handed over a card bearing the company address, and the truck rolled away.
Reminded that he had pictures of his own to rush back to Brandale, Flash stuffed the card into his pocket, and hurried to the waiting taxi. As he drove off he saw that Brooks had gone with Albert Povy.
“Wonder if he knows the man’s reputation?” he thought. “I suppose he must.”
Flash dismissed the matter entirely from his mind. He never expected to see either of the men again. His only concern was the possibility of future news stories or pictures.