Khoklov helped Starlitz move the paint ladder to the cockpit. "I’ll have to tell them I had engine trouble, and was forced to fly very slowly. To stay aloft so long, and still return safely to base—I think I just performed a superhuman feat of aviation!" Khoklov chuckled and elbowed Starlitz in the ribs. "Just like one of your so-called miracles, eh, Comrade Starlits? It’s amazing what nontechnical people will believe."