"I don't see how they can," was the grim answer. "However, I appreciate all that you have done for me. But I fear my case is hopeless."
"I'll see you again in the morning," Tom said, trying to infuse some cheerfulness into his voice.
He found Ned waiting for him when he came downstairs.
"How is he?" asked the young business manager.
"In rather a bad way—mentally, at least," and Tom told of the lost formulae. "Do you know, Ned," he went on, "I have an idea!"
"You generally do have—lots of 'em!" Ned rejoined.
"But this is a new one," went on Tom. "You saw what trouble they had this evening to get a stream of water to the top stories of that factory, didn't you?"
"Yes, the pressure here isn't what it ought to be," Ned agreed. "And some of our engines are old-timers."
"Why is it necessary always to fight a fire with water?" Tom continued. "There are plenty of chemicals that will put out a fire much quicker than water."
"Of course," Ned answered. "There are plenty of chemical fire extinguishers on the market, too, Tom. If your idea is to invent a new hand grenade, stay off it! A lot of money has been lost that way."