ready large fleets of aerial warships, so why shouldn't we?
Matters in Europe are mighty uncertain. There may be a great war
there in which aerial craft will play a big part. I am conceited
enough to think I can build one that will measure up to the
foreign ones, and I'll soon be in a position to know."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean I have already communicated with our government
experts, and they are soon to come and inspect this craft. I have
sent them word that it is about finished. There is only the
matter of the guns, and some of the ordnance officers may be able
to help me out with a suggestion, for I admit I am stuck!"
exclaimed Tom.

"Then you're going to do the same with this aerial warship as
you did with your big lantern and that immense gun you
perfected?" asked Ned.

"That's right," confirmed Tom. My former readers will know to
what Ned Newton referred, and those of you who do not may learn
the details of how Tom helped Uncle Sam, by reading the previous
volumes, "Tom Swift and His Great Searchlight," and "Tom Swift
and His Giant Cannon."

"When do you expect the government experts?" Ned asked.

"Within a few days, now. But I'll have to hustle to get ready
for them, as this fire has put me back. There are quite a number
of details I need to change. Well, now, let me explain about that