Tom did catch a glimpse of Andy and his father in the cabin of the Anthony, and he also saw a couple of men working frantically over the machinery.
"They're going to try to catch us!" called Tom to Ned.
This was evident a moment later, for, after the Red Cloud had forged ahead, her rival made a clumsy attempt to follow. The Anthony did show a burst of speed, and, for a moment Tom was apprehensive lest he had underrated his rival's prowess.
Suddenly Ned, who was looking from a projecting side window of the pilothouse, back toward Andy's ship, cried out in alarm.
"What's the matter?" shouted Tom.
"The airship—Andy's—two of the main wings have collapsed!"
Tom looked. It was but too true. The strain under which the Anthony had been put when the machinists increased the speed, had been too much for the frame. Two wings broke, and now hung uselessly down, one on either side. The Anthony shot toward the snow-covered earth!
"They're falling!" cried Mr. Parker.
"Yes," added Tom, grimly, "the race is over as far as they are concerned."
