"Appleton, Victor - Tom Swift Sr 020 - Tom Swift in the Land of Wonders" - читать интересную книгу автора (Appleton Victor)

the right to manufacture

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that new explosive of yours,'' began Ned, plunging into the business at
hand. ``I think if you stick out a little you can get a better royalty
price.''

``But I don't want to gouge 'em, Ned. I'm satisfied with a fair
profit. The trouble with you is you think too much of money. Now -- -- ''

At that moment a voice was heard in the hall of the house saying:

``Now, my dear lady, don't trouble yourself. I can find my way in to
Tom Swift perfectly well by myself, and while I appreciate your courtesy I
do not want to trouble you.''

``No, don't come, Mrs. Baggert,'' added another voice. ``Bless my hat
band, I think I know my way about the house by this time!''

``Mr. Damon!'' ejaculated Ned.

``And Professor Bumper is with him,'' added Tom. ``Come in!'' he
cried, opening the hall door, to confront a bald-headed man who stood
peering at our hero with bright snapping eyes, like those of some big bird
spying out the land from afar. ``Come in, Professor Bumper; and you too,
Mr. Damon!''

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Chapter 3

CHAPTER III
BLESSINGS AND ENTHUSIASM

GREETINGS and inquiries as to health having been passed, not without
numerous blessings on the part of Mr. Damon, the little party gathered in
the library of the home of Tom Swift sat down and looked at one another.

On Professor Bumper's face there was, plainly to be seen, a look of
expectation, and it seemed to be shared by Mr. Damon, who seemed eager to
burst into enthusiastic talk. On the other hand Tom Swift appeared a bit
indifferent.

Ned himself admitted that he was frankly curious. The story of the big
idol of gold had occupied his thoughts for many hours.

``Well, I'm glad to see you both,'' said Tom again. ``You got here all