From the current distributor the current was conducted through
other oil switches to the transformers--entering at 100,000 volts
and emerging at 2,300 volts. Then the current was conducted from
the transformers through switches to the motor-generator sets and
became the power employed to operate them.

The motor generator consisted of one alternating current motor
driving two direct current generators. The motor Tom established
in his station was of the 60-cycle synchronous type, which means
that the current changes sixty times each second.

There were two sets, each generating a 1,500 or 2,000 volt
direct current; and the two generators being permanently
connected, delivered a combined direct current of 3,000 volts--as
high a direct voltage current, Tom knew, as had ever been adopted
for railroad work. The current voltage for ordinary street
railway work is 550 volts.

"I could run even this big machine," Tom explained to Ned
Newton, "with a much lighter current. But out there on the
Hendrickton & Pas Alos line the transforming stations deliver this
high voltage to the locomotives. I want to test mine under
similar conditions."

"This is going to be an expensive test, Tom," said Ned,
grumbling a little. "The cost-sheets are running high."

"We are aiming at a big target," returned the inventor. "You've
got to bait with something bigger than sprats to catch a whale,