“We have had a little more than our share,” admitted Tom. “But I think the worst is over now.”
“You sure handled your ship like a veteran!” commended the two shipwrecked sailors.
Tom’s arrival at Honolulu was greeted with a great demonstration on the part of officials and the populace, some of whom had expected that one or more of the world racers might pass over their islands. So when word came that Tom had stopped to take on gasoline and oil, arrangements were made to fête him. But he had little time for any ceremonies although he did consent to be decked with a wreath of flowers—a native custom.
“I want to hop off again as soon as I can,” he told the welcoming delegation, though as politely as possible. “You understand how it is.”
“Oh, yes, we understand,” was the reply. “But one of your rivals is here, and he seems to be taking his time.”
“Who is it?” asked Tom, though he was almost prepared for the answer that came.
“Dan Kilborn in the Red Arrow.”
“Here ahead of us!” exclaimed Ned.
“That isn’t to be wondered at!” remarked Tom. “The thing for us to do is to leave ahead of him and keep him at a distance.”
They learned that the Red Arrow had arrived two days before with a broken cam shaft and that the repairs were nearly completed. On hearing this Tom hastened as much as he could the taking on of gas, oil, and other necessities. But when it seemed that they might get under way again a few hours after landing in Honolulu, Peltok discovered another small burned-out bearing that must be replaced.