midnight
The Mars was nearing completion . The repaired motor was better than ever , and everything was in shape for the final test . Mr. Damon was persuaded to go along , and Koku was to be taken , as well as the two government officials . The night before the trip the guards about the airship shed were doubled , and Tom made two visits to the place before midnight . But there was no alarm . Consequently , when the Mars started off on her final test , it was thought that all danger from the spies was over . `` She certainly is a beauty , '' said Captain Warner , as the big craft shot upward .