Chapter IV

Much to Think About


Although it was now nearing ten o'clock on this eventful
evening, Tom knew that he would find Ned Newton at home. When Mr.
Damon's car stopped before the house there was a light in Ned's
room and the front door opened almost as soon as Tom rang. Mr.
Damon left the car and entered with the young inventor at his
invitation.

"What's up?" was Ned's greeting, looking at the two curiously
as he ushered them in. "I see this isn't entirely a social call,"
and he laughed as he shook the older man's hand.

"Bless my particular star!" exclaimed the latter excitedly. "Of
all the thrilling adventures that anybody ever got into, it is
this Tom Swift who cooks them up! Why, Newton! do you know that
we have been held up by a highwayman within two blocks of this
very house?"

"And that of course was Tom's fault?" suggested Ned, still
smiling.

"It wouldn't have happened if he had not been with me," said
Mr. Damon.

"I am curious," said Ned, as they seated themselves. "Who was