The car came nearer, vibrating with the power of its motor. Then it slowed down, ran close to the curb and stopped.
“Hello, boys!” exclaimed Mr. Wakefield. “Want to go for a spin?”
“Do we!” exclaimed Ned. “We were just wishing you would ask us. But I didn’t know you had an automobile.”
“I only got it to-day,” explained the athletic instructor. “I purchased one some time ago, and have been taking lessons in how to run one in Boston. They sent my car out to-day but I didn’t get a chance to try it until now because of the club races. Come on! Jump in!”
The three boys lost no time in complying. Bob got in the front seat with Mr. Wakefield, for he thought if he was to have an auto he had better learn as much about how to run one as he could. Jerry and Ned were in the back. Off they started and made good speed.
“We’ll go out in the country a way,” said Mr. Wakefield. “I know a nice pleasant road.”
Soon the car swung into a broad highway shaded by big trees through which the sun, that was beginning to sink into the west, shone faintly. On and on they went for several miles. Then as the evening shadows were beginning to fall, Mr. Wakefield turned his car toward Cresville, which was reached all too soon for the boys, who had enjoyed their ride greatly.
“Thanks!” they chorused as they alighted. “It was great!”
“Glad you liked it,” returned Mr. Wakefield. “I will take you again, some time.”
“If we only had a car like that!” sighed Jerry, and Bob and Ned echoed his wish.