“Unless you don’t care about living on your own account or that of your son’s,” said the professor, grimly.
They kept on steady after this and at last reached the bottom of the mountain slope.
“Now for the village,” exclaimed Mr. Bell. “I shall soon see my boy!”
Faster and faster went the auto. The traveling was good, and Jerry speeded the car to the last notch. About six o’clock they rolled into town, to the surprise of many of the inhabitants, who had never seen one of the puffing, snorting things, though they had read of them.
A knot of curious persons gathered around the machine as Jerry brought it to a stop in front of the post-office. Several boys began to inspect every part. The travelers were about to alight when a shrill voice cried out.
“Hey, Jerry! And Bob! And Ned! Hey there! Oh, how glad I am to see you!”
For a moment the Motor Boys did not recognize the voice. Then Ned saw a lad trying to break through the crowd.
“It’s Tommy! It’s Tommy Bell!” exclaimed Ned. “Hey, Tommy! You can’t guess who we have with us!”
“Tommy Bell! Did you say Tommy Bell!” exclaimed the hermit. “Where is he? Let me see him!”