The guardian and his ward accompanied Tom back to Rockley Cove as guests at the Barnes homestead. Tom at once repaired to the wireless station. He put his excitable chum in transports of delight when he announced the success of his search for the stolen Harry Ashley.
“Had some visitors here this afternoon,” announced Ben. “Mart Walters and young Aldrich came along. Aldrich was hot and furious to know if you had used his launch. Just as I explained to them that you had, and thereby saved Grace Morgan’s life, and they toned down a little, along came Grace herself. She overheard their squabbling, and turned her back on them and wouldn’t speak to them. They sneaked away.”
“Oh, Grace was here?” said Tom, trying to look only ordinarily interested.
“She was,” replied Ben sprightly, “and spent a pleasant hour. She made me tell her all about the way we telegraph. She even made me teach her certain dots and dashes. Hello! why, there’s a call from my home wireless outfit.”
The receiver began to buzz and click. Tom looked suspiciously at his comrade.
“T-o-m B-a-r-n-e-s, y-o-u a-r-e m-z m-x m-y h-e-r-o. A-u-n-t B-e-r-t-h-a w-a-n-t-s t-o s-e-e y-o-u. G-r-a-c-e,” came the message.
“H-m,” commented Tom, flushing as his chum chuckled audibly. “Up to tricks, are you? What are you laughing at?”
“Why,” smiled Ben seriously, “I was just thinking what a whole lot the Morgan family think of you, Tom!”
It took two full weeks for Rockley Cove and its vicinity to get over the courageous exploit of Tom Barnes in saving the passengers and crew of the Olivia.
Bill Barber shared in the general commendation. He appeared on the streets of the village, chipper, ambitious and well dressed, with the great desire of his life, a full-blooded bulldog, at his heels.