Merton's shop about
you and your patents. I wouldn't have anything to do with him until
I found out more about him."
"Is that so?" asked Mr. Swift quickly. Then, turning to the
stranger, he said: "My son tells me--"
But Mr. Swift got no further, for at that moment the stranger caught
sight of Tom, whom he had not noticed before.
"Ha!" exclaimed the man. "I have forgotten something--an important
engagement--will be back directly--will see you again, Mr. Swift--
excuse the trouble I have put you to--I am in a great hurry," and
before father or son could stop him, had they any desire to, the man
turned and walked quickly from the yard.
Mr. Swift stood staring at him, and so did Tom. Then the inventor
asked:
"Do you know that man? What about him, Tom? Why did he leave so
hurriedly?"
"I don't know his name," replied Tom, "but I am suspicious regarding
him, and I think he left because he suddenly recognized me."
Thereupon he told his father of seeing the man in the post-office,
and hearing the talk of the same individual and two companions in
the restaurant.
"And so you think they are up to some mischief, Tom?" asked the
parent when the son had finished.
"Well, I wouldn't go quite as far as that, but I think they are
interested in your patents, and you ought to know whether you want
them to be, or not.
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