seen me. I guess it will be all right. I don't want to go back to the house now."
"No, it's too far," agreed Ned.
"I have it!" exclaimed Tom. "I'll telephone to dad from here, not to let Halling go up until I come back. He may not come for his machine; but, if he does, it's best to be on the safe side Ned."
"Oh, sure."
Accordingly, Tom 'phoned from his boathouse, and Mr. Swift promised to see the birdman if he called. Then Ned and Tom gave themselves up to the delights of a trip on the water.
The Kilo, which name Tom had selected for his new craft, was a powerful boat, and comfortable. It swept on down the lake, and many other persons, in their pleasure craft, turned to look at Tom's fine one.
"Lots of folks out to-day," observed Ned as they went around a point of the shore.
"Yes, quite a number," agreed Tom, leaning forward to adjust the motor. I wonder what's got into her?" he said, in some annoyance, as he made various adjustments. "One of the cylinders is missing."
"Maybe it needs a new spark plug," suggested Ned.
