“The truth of the matter is,” began the tall lad, “there is a little trouble afoot. If we can settle that, one way or the other, we may go on a trip. And perhaps you can help us!” he exclaimed, as he went back to the boat, bringing up the lump of yellow clay. “I’d like to know, Professor Snodgrass,” said Jerry, earnestly, “whether or not that clay is good for anything; and if so, for what?”
Professor Snodgrass looked at it, smelled of it, touched a bit to his tongue, and remarked:
“Well, Jerry, I shall have to analyze it to tell what it is good for; if anything.”
“Oh, yes. I didn’t expect an answer off-hand,” said the tall youth. Then he asked Mr. Snodgrass about his activities since their last meeting, and, thus talking, the boys followed the little scientist to Jerry’s home. Andy went on to his own house to don dry garments.
“A two-tailed lizard!” grunted Bob to Ned, as they walked in the rear. “That’s about the craziest stunt yet!”
“Oh, well, you know what the professor is,” said Ned, tolerantly.
For nearly a week, while he remained the guest of Mrs. Hopkins, Professor Snodgrass tested and analyzed the yellow clay. Then, one afternoon, coming out of the room he had fitted up as a laboratory, his hands and face covered with the yellow mud, Professor Snodgrass remarked:
“Well, Jerry, I’ve finished!”
“You mean you have analyzed the clay?” asked the youth, excitedly.
“Yes. I have given it the last test, as far as I am able.”