In due time Tom and his companion reached the outskirts of Shopton, and then, knowing Mary would like a little privacy, he went to the nearest telephone and called a taxicab from the town garage. It came out to get him and Mary, and a little later she was safe at home.
“Oh, Mary! I’ve been so worried about you!” cried Mrs. Nestor. “Where have you been?”
“Oh, aeroplaning, falling, climbing out of trees, forest-firing, thunder and lightning, boating and floating—those are just a few of our activities this afternoon,” replied Mary, with a little excited laugh.
“What does she mean, Tom?” asked the bewildered lady.
“Those are some of the things that happened to us,” the young inventor said. “It isn’t a bit exaggerated. I suppose you heard about the forest fire?”
“Yes; and we were much worried for those in its path. But Mr. Nestor said it wouldn’t come this way.”
“No, it was far enough off from you,” agreed Tom. “And it’s all over now. Well, I think I’ll get back. I took this afternoon off as a sort of rest and mental relaxation—and I got it!” he chuckled grimly.
“How is Mr. Newton’s case coming on, Tom?” asked Mrs. Nestor.
“We thought very well, but something curious turned up a few days ago,” answered the young inventor, but not going into details. “Mr. Plum and Mr. Newton are out of town now, running down some evidence.”
At that moment the telephone rang, and Mr. Nestor, answering it, exclaimed: