Page:The Diothas, or, A far look ahead (IA diothasorfarlook01macn).pdf/97

 "This is the way to expand the seat," was the reply. "I will steer till we reach the main road."

Ere we reached there, I had mastered the few simple motions that controlled the machine. Then, taking the tiller, I put my metallic steed to its paces. Presently, seeing me sufficiently master of the machine, Utis requested me to set him down at a house where he had some business. As he desired me to call again in about an hour, I reminded him that I had no watch. He then drew my attention to three small dials inserted near the foot-rest. One was the dial of a cyclometer, recording the distance run; a second was a watch-dial, divided as already explained; on a third, an index, moving like that of a steam-gauge, indicated the rate of speed at any moment.

Never shall I forget the exhilaration of that ride! At a rate of speed such as can be maintained by a horse for a brief period only, on I dashed without let or pause. Houses and trees flew past: the wind almost prevented breathing. Yet no panting, foaming steed, no compunetuous fears for a noble and valuable animal. Onward sped my silent steed, with unabated force, till the dial showed that half my time was expired.

On my return, I had reached within a mile or two of where I expected to find Utis, when I observed, some distance ahead, a curricle standing on the turnout of the road. The rider's back was toward me, but her stooping position—by this time I had recognized the dress as that of a young girl—showed her to be busied at something beneath the body of the vehicle.

I was in some doubt as to what would be proper for