"I didn't hear of any accident," said Tom, "and I'm sorry to learn that you have been in one. I just happened to come past this way. At first, I thought you were a highwayman. But when I heard you bless your accident policy I knew you."
"It's lucky I spoke promptly!" chuckled the eccentric man.
"What happened?" asked Tom, as he made room for his friend on the seat beside him. "Are you hurt?"
"Oh, no. But my auto stalled about two miles back and I couldn't get it going. There wasn't any garage near, and I hated to go to some strange house, rouse them and ask to use the telephone to have a towing car come out to get me. So I started to walk, thinking I might meet some kind-hearted motorist. I never dreamed you would come by."
"It was just chance," said Tom. "But what's the matter with your car, and where is it? Maybe I can fix it for you."
"No, it isn't worth while. I think the points need filing and that isn't easy to do in the dark. If you'll run me to your house I'll stay all night, provided you have room. My wife is away so she won't miss me. It will be time enough in the morning to send a garage man out to get the car."
"All right," assented Tom. Truth to tell, he was tired and did not relish working over a refractory auto at this hour of the night, or rather, morning, for it was now past twelve. "We'll be glad to put you up, Mr. Damon."
"And I'm glad it happened, Tom, for it will give me a chance to see this new House on Wheels of yours. The last time I was over you were just planning it," said Mr. Damon. "I expect, by now, it is making regular trips."
"Not quite so fast as that. But we're about ready for a tryout."
"Then I'm just in time, bless my tooth brush!" chuckled Mr. Damon.