L. Frank Baum

“ They looked at the invention with dismay, both silent for a time.
“Of course,” said Steve, struggling to restrain his disappointment, “we couldn’t expect it to be perfect at the first trial.”
“No,” agreed Orissa, faintly.
“But it ought to fly, you know.”
“Being a flying machine, it ought to,” she said. “Can you mend it, Steve?” ”

“ This was now but a few minutes’ work, and presently the aëroplane was on the smooth turf of the pasture.
They were all alone. There were no near neighbors, and it was early for any to be astir.
“One of the most important improvements I have made is my starting device,” said Steve, as he began a last careful examination of his aircraft. “All others have a lot of trouble in getting started. The Wright people erect a tower and windlass, and nearly every other machine uses a track.”
“I know,” replied Orissa. ”