Something like that."
53 "You've got some good idea," agreed Bold Fox, "but you haven't got a
chance with The Speaker. All he thinks about is the railroad!"
54 "It seems like all ANYBODY has thought of for the last ten seasons
is the railroad!" the other man answered. "By the way, I'm Soaring
Hawk."
55 "Bold Fox," the other told him. "Very glad to meet you."
56 A young man suddenly stepped out of the crowd. "Sir," he said, "I've
been listening to your conversation. If The First Speaker is not
interested in funding you, I'd like to speak with you. I am very rich,
and the idea of flying like a bird fills my heart with joy. Perhaps we
can make some kind of agreement, where I can supply you with funds, and
you teach me
to fly."
57 "I would still prefer support from The Church," announced Soaring
Hawk, "but if it is as this man says, then surely I will come to you.
What is your name, sir?"
58 "I am Leaping Toad," the other man answered. The two men walked off
discussing flying.
59 "I want to keep in contact with that man," commented Bold Fox, "we
may need those gliders."
60 And Bold Fox's words proved true. The First Speaker was fascinated
with the glider, like anyone else, but he would not think of taking
funds from the railroad for anything. So Soaring Hawk accepted Leaping
Toad's offer, and they formed a company which they called Wind
Riders.
61 Soon, gliders became the passion of the idle young rich men that had
little to do. Soon they could be seen over every city, rolling and
turning half the day, riding on the wind.
62 As summer approached, news came of some strange happenings. There
had been a series of