The boys found Uncle Ralph in the reception room.
“Well, there’s no telegram from your friend yet,” was his greeting as they stepped toward him. When his eyes lighted upon Tom Clifton’s tall figure he half arose in his chair. “’Pon my word—what on earth does this mean?” he exclaimed. “Where did you come from, boy?”
Tom was visibly embarrassed, as the eyes of every one in the room were immediately leveled upon him.
“I blew in on the motor car,” he began, “and——”
“What—on the motor car—alone?”
“Yes, sir; and——”
“Let’s have this story right from the beginning,” thundered Uncle Ralph, bringing his fist down on the table with a resounding bang, a proceeding which added considerably to Tom’s confusion.
It wasn’t very easy for the tall boy to relate his story, especially with a number of people sitting around, all apparently eager to hear him speak. Uncle Ralph’s loud voice was the cause of this. He plunged in bravely, however, being very careful indeed not to let out a hint regarding Victor’s supposed trick.
Many and varied were Captain Bunderley’s observations as the tale was told. The captain couldn’t help expressing his frank opinion at all times, and in this case it wasn’t favorable to Tom.
“Why on earth did you do such a silly thing, boy?” he stormed.