it is probable that his acts would have been repudiated. But he was desperate.
Failing in many attempts he resolved on a last one. He sent his servant to the ammunition room to "dope" the powder, hoping that, at the next shot, the gun would be ruined. Perhaps he hoped to disable Tom. But the plot failed, and the conspirators escaped. They were never heard of again, probably leaving Panama under assumed names and in disguise.
"Well, that explains the mystery," said Tom to Ned a few days later. "I guess we won't have to worry any more."
"No, and I'm sorry I suspected General Waller."
"Oh, well, he'll never know it, so no harm is done. Oh, but I'm glad this is over. It has gotten on my nerves."
"I should say so," agreed Ned.
"Bless my pillow sham!" cried Mr. Damon. "I think I can get a good night's sleep now. So they have formally accepted your giant cannon, Tom?"
"Yes. The last tests I gave them, showing how easily it could be manipulated, convinced them. It will be one of the official defense guns of the Panama Canal."
"Good! I congratulate you, my boy!" cried
