"No time like the present, you know," said Joe.
But the two bullies had little inclination for a fair fight, as they had a pretty shrewd suspicion of how they would fare in that event. With ugly sidewise looks they passed on, leaving Bob and Joe in possession of the field.
"They're beginning to think we're bad medicine," said Joe. "A little more training, Bob, and they'll even be afraid to talk back to us."
"Looks that way, doesn't it," said Bob, laughing.
The two radio boys went on to their destination, which was the hardware store, where they both wanted to buy some wire and other supplies. What was their surprise, when they went inside, to find Frank Brandon, the radio inspector, talking to the proprietor.
As the boys entered, Brandon glanced at them, and then, as recognition came into his eyes, he extended his hand.
"Hello, there!" he exclaimed. "How have you been since I saw you?
How's the wireless coming on?"
"It's O K," said Bob. "We're both trying for the Ferberton prize, you know."
"That's fine," said Brandon heartily. "The prizes are to be given out pretty soon, aren't they?"
"Yes. And we're both hoping that if one of us doesn't get it, the other will," said Joe. "If neither one gets it, it won't be anything against you," said Brandon. "I hear there are a lot of sets entered, and some of the fellows who have made them have been at the game a lot longer than you have."