Jerry explained that one of their inner tubes had blown out.
“Want any help?” asked the athletic instructor.
“We may as well begin now as any other time to mend our own breaks,” spoke Jerry. “You go ahead. We’ll catch up to you soon.”
“All right,” said Mr. Wakefield. He felt that it would be a good thing to accustom the boys to depend on themselves. So, telling them that the road to Norwich was now a straight one, and that the town was about ten miles off, he left them to their own devices.
The boys started in on the not very easy task of taking off the heavy outer shoe and inserting a new inner tube, of which they carried a supply. It finally became so dark that they had to light the lamps to see to work. At length they were finished and the tools were put away.
The new tire was pumped up and the engine started. The boys took their seats, and, at Bob’s request, he was allowed to steer.
“Go slow at first,” advised Jerry, “until we see how the new tube holds.”
Bob started off at first speed. It was now quite dark, but the oil and acetylene lamps gave a good light. All at once Bob, who was peering ahead, shut off the power with a jerk and put the brakes on hard.
“What’s the matter?” asked Jerry.