Jenks. "I have a great deal
to do before I can start on this trip, and I hope I am not
prevented by any of those men who seem to be trailing me."
"How could they prevent you?" Tom wanted to know.
"Oh, there are any number of ways," was the answer. "But I'm
glad you found that my diamonds were real. We'll soon have
plenty, if all goes well."
As Mr. Jenks left the shop, he started back, in some alarm.
"What's the matter?" asked Tom.
"Over there--I thought I saw a figure sneaking along under the
trees--that man--perhaps--"
"That's Eradicate, our colored helper," replied Tom, with a
laugh. "I posted him there to see that no strangers came into the
orchard. Everything all right, Rad?" he asked, raising his voice.
"Yais, sah, Massa Tom. Nobody been around yeah this night."
"That's good. You can go to bed now," and Eradicate, yawning
loudly, went to his shack. A little later Tom sought his own
room, Mr. Jenks having hurried off to town, where he was
boarding.
The next few days saw Tom busily engaged on the airship, making
some changes and a few repairs that were needed. His father,
Eradicate and Mr. Jackson helped him. As for Mr. Parker, the
scientist, he went about the place, being much interested in the
various machines which Tom or Mr. Swift had patented.
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