"The reason I wish they were here to-day," went on Mr. Wood, "is
that the men did some slight damage to the boat, and if they were
here to-day we would make them pay for it. However, the damage is
slight and can easily be repaired. I mention that, as Mr.
Hastings desired me to. Now we will proceed with the bidding, and
I will say that an opportunity will first be given all to examine
the boat. Perhaps Tom Swift will give us his opinion on the state
it is in as we know he is well qualified to talk about machinery."
All eyes were turned on Tom, for many knew him.
"Humph! I guess I know as much about boats and motors as he does,"
sneered Andy Foger. 'He isn't the only one in this crowd! Why
didn't the auctioneer ask me?"
"Keep quiet," begged Sam Snedecker. "People are laughing at you,
Andy."
"I don't care if they are," muttered the sandy haired youth. "Tom
Swift needn't think he's everything."
"If you will come down to the dock," went on the auctioneer, "you
can all see the boat, and I would be glad to have young Mr. Swift
give us the benefit of his advice."
The throng trooped down to the lake, and, blushing somewhat, Tom
told what was the matter with the motor and how it could be fixed.
It was noticed that there was less enthusiasm over the matter than
there had been, for certainly the engine, rusty and out of order
as it was, did not present an attractive sight.
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