"
"Did you hear anything more of Blowitz?" asked Ned.
"Yes," replied Mr. De Vere, rather solemnly. "Blowitz was killed
shortly after the tug gave up the chase."
"How?"
"The boiler blew up when the tug was trying to tow the derelict in,
and he and several of the crew were burned to death. The survivors
floated on the wreckage until they were picked up. So I have nothing
more to fear from Blowitz. But I called to know if you boys, and the
young ladies, Mr. Seabury and Professor Snodgrass, would not be my
guests at a little dinner I am to give at the hotel. I want to show
you that I appreciate what you did for me."
"I think you have already done so," said Jerry.
"Perhaps I have, but I would like you to come to my dinner. Will you?"
The boys promised. So did the girls and Mr. Seabury, whose health was
much improved by the California climate. The professor, with a far
away look in his eyes, said he would be there if he could.
"What's to prevent you?" asked Bob.
"Well, I haven't found that horned toad yet, and I'm still searching."
The dinner came off three nights later. It was a grand affair, served
in the best of style of which the San Felicity hotel chef was capable.
The girls and the boys were there, dressed in their best, and Ponto
was taken along as a sort of chaperon, which gave him great delight.
He did not once fall asleep.
"But where is Professor Snodgrass?" asked Mr. De Vere, when it was
nearly time to sit down.
Pages:
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176