39
Scotty was standing in front of the plane’s nose, watching Fred tighten the final screws that secured the Wright engine back into place. He grabbed the first Air Force technician who walked past and ordered an hour’s worth of petrol to be put in the tank.
‘Yes, Lieutenant.’ The young man saluted.
Ivan grabbed Scotty’s arm. He’d seen the reporters arrive.
‘Scotty, wait. The Herald reporters are here. They’ve organised to take some photos of the test flight with George and you.’
Ivan kept a strong grip on Scotty’s arm and tried to ignore the resentful scowl settling on his friend’s face.
‘Come on, mate, it’ll only take a few moments. Remember, they pay, we eat and sleep.’
‘All right, but let’s try to keep it quick.’
Ivan waved George over. Scotty noticed the sailor’s bag at Ivan’s
