“When the wings are extended, it flies as a conventional jet,” Tom explained.
“There’s also a dirigible bag enclosed in the dome on top of the fuselage, which can be used for take-off or landing in tight spots. I’ve already landed it near the village.”
The three members of the policia scowled and scratched their jaws uneasily.
It was evident that they were none too eager to board such a weird-looking aircraft. But realizing that it was a choice between taking the paraplane or hiking ten miles through the jungle, Pedro and Miguel shrugged helplessly.
POLICE QUIZ 147
“We accept your offer-gracias,” Rodriguez announced at last.
Tom warmed up the paraplane and gave the three officers a hand as they climbed aboard. Then he flicked the control switch to fill the bag with helium. The ship rose gently from the clearing.
“Caramba!” the police chief muttered as they floated above the treetops.
“Most remarkable!”
Tom extended the wings and opened the throttle slightly. The ship speared gracefully toward the Mayan village. But suddenly Tom realized that the rudder and elevators were not responding properly.
Alarmed, he worked the stick and control pedals. Again, only a feeble response! With a sinking feeling Tom knew that he and his passengers were scudding helplessly over an unbroken expanse of forest, with no possible spot for an emergency landing!
CHAPTER XVII
THE BURIED TEMPLE
TOM shot a quick glance at Luis Rodriguez. The police chief was staring down at the jungle scenery, while Pedro and Miguel talked volubly in Spanish.