CHAPTER XXIV
THE MYSTERY SOLVED
From then on, for several days, the young inventor and his new
friend lived in an atmosphere of airships. They talked them from
morning until night, and even Mr. Swift, much as he was exercised
over his loss, took part in the discussions.
In the meanwhile efforts had not ceased to locate the robbers and
recover the stolen goods, but so far without success.
One afternoon, about two weeks after the thrilling rescue of John
Sharp, Tom said to the balloonist:
"Wouldn't you like to come for a ride in the motor-boat? Maybe it
will help us to solve the puzzle of the airship. We'll take a
trip across and up the opposite shore."
"Good idea," commented Mr. Sharp. "Fine day for a sail. Come on.
Blow the cobwebs from our brains."
Mr. Swift declined an invitation to accompany them, as he said he
would stay home and try to straighten out his affairs, which were
somewhat muddled by the robbery.
Out over the blue waters of Lake Carlopa shot the ARROW. It was
making only moderate speed, as Tom was in no hurry, and he knew
his engine would last longer if not forced too frequently. They
glided along, crossed the lake and were proceeding up the opposite
shore when, as they turned out from a little bay and rounded a
point of land, Mr.
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