piece of paper he had taken from his pocket, and had not heard what
Mr. Damon said. The latter, however, knew what Tom meant, and went on.

"Well, I didn't like the looks of these men, and when I saw them
sizing me up, evidently thinking I had drawn money out instead of
putting it in, I decided to give them the slip. I got in my auto, but
I was startled to see them get in their car. I headed for here, as I
was coming to pay you a visit, anyhow, and the mysterious men kept
after me. It became a regular race. I put on all the speed I could and
headed for your house, Tom, for I thought you would help me. I went
faster and faster, and so did they. They were almost up to me, and I
was just thinking of slowing down to turn in here, when I lost control
of my machine, and-well, I did turn in here, but not exactly as I
intended. Bless my gaiters! I came in with rather more of a rush than
I expected. It was awful-positively awful, I assure you. You've no
idea how nervous I was. But I escaped those scoundrels, for they
rushed on when they saw what I had done-smashed the porch railing".

"Probably they thought you'd smash them," observed Tom with a laugh.
"But why did they follow you?"

"Can't imagine! Haven't the least idea. Bless my spark-plug, but they
might have imagined I had money. Anyhow I'm glad I escaped them!"

"It's lucky you weren't hurt," said Mr. Sharp.

"Oh, me? Bless my existence! I'm always having narrow escapes." Mr.
Damon caught sight of the Red Cloud which was out in front of the big
shed. "Bless my heart! What's that?" he added.