Before Mr. Kimball started for his home, renewed thanks had been made to the farmer and his son for the part they had played in the rescue, and the young inventor, learning that the boy had a liking for things mechanical, promised to aid him in his intention to become a machinist.
"But first get a good education," Tom advised. "Keep on with your school work, and when the time comes I'll take you into my shop."
"And maybe he'll make a tank that will rival yours, Tom," said Ned.
"Maybe he will! I hope he does. If he comes along fast enough, he can help with something else I'm going to start soon."
"Whats that?" asked Mr. Damon.
"Oh, it's something on the same order, designed to help batter down the German lines," Tom answered. "I haven't quite made up my mind what to call it yet. But let's get home. I want to see that my tank is safe. The absence of the plotters from the factory makes me suspicious."
On the way back Tom told more of the details of the attack.
"But we'll forget about it all, now you're out," remarked Ned.
"And the sooner we get home, the better," added Tom. "Can't you get a little more speed out of this machine?" he asked.
"Well, it isn't the Hawk," replied Ned, "but we'll see what we can do," and he made the runabout fairly fly.