The florid gentleman stood framed in the doorway, watching him as friendly hosts are wont to gaze after departing guests, out west where guests are few.

Like a departing guest Cliff turned for a last word.
"I'll be back soon as possible," he called to the man Schwab.

"A little after sunrise, probably.

Better wait here for me." Schwab nodded and waved his cigar, and Johnny grinned to himself while he straddled into his seat.
Cliff went straight to the propeller.

"Take me to Los Angeles, old man.