Ned reported. "Maybe they became frightened,
Tom."

"I wish I could think that," was the answer. "What is more likely to be
the case is that they're up to some new tricks. I must get back home
quickly."

And after a stop had been made at a farmhouse belonging to a business
acquaintance of Ned's, where Tom was able to wash and get a cup of hot
tea, which added to his recuperative powers, the young inventor, with
Ned and Mr. Damon, set out for Shopton.

Before Mr. Kimball started for his home, renewed thanks had been made
to the farmer and his son for the part they had played in the rescue,
and the young inventor, learning that the boy had a liking for things
mechanical, promised to aid him in his intention to become a machinist.

"But first get a good education," Tom advised. "Keep on with your
school work, and when the time comes I'll take you into my shop."

"And maybe he'll make a tank that will rival yours, Tom," said Ned.

"Maybe he will! I hope he does. If he comes along fast enough, he can
help with something else I'm going to start soon."

"Whats that?" asked Mr. Damon.

"Oh, it's something on the same order, designed to help batter down the
German lines," Tom answered. "I haven't quite made up my mind what to
call it yet. But let's get home. I want to see that my tank is safe.
The absence of the plotters from the factory makes me suspicious."

On the way back Tom told more of the details of the attack.

"But we'll forget about it all, now you're out," remarked Ned.

"And the sooner we get home, the better," added Tom. "Can't you get a
little more speed out of this machine?" he asked.

"Well, it isn't the Hawk," replied Ned, "but we'll see what we can do,"
and he made the runabout fairly fly.

Mrs. Baggert was the first to greet Tom as they arrived at his home.
She did not seem as surprised as either Tom, Ned or Mr. Damon expected
her to be.

"Well, I'm glad you're all right," she said. "And it's a good thing you
sent that note, for your father was so excited and worried I was
getting apprehensive about him."

"What note?" asked Tom, while a queer look came into his face.

"Why, the one you sent saying you were detained on business and would
probably not be home for a week, and to have Koku and the men bring the
tank to you."

"Bring the tank! A note from me!" exclaimed Tom. "The plotters again!
And they've got the tank!"

He ran to the big shop followed by the others. Throwing open the do