They inquired for Tom, and, as he was out in the shop, with Ned
and Koku, and as he often received visitors out there, Mrs.
Baggert sent out the two men, who left their car in front of the
house.

As usual, Tom had the inner door to his shop locked, and when
Koku brought in a message that two strangers would like to see
the young inventor, Tom remarked:

"I guess it's the rival picture men, Ned. We'll see what they
have to say."

"Which of you is Tom Swift?" asked the elder of the two men, as
Tom and Ned entered the front office, for our hero knew better
than to admit the strangers to the shop.

"I am," replied Tom.

"Well, we're men of business," went on the speaker, "and there
is no use beating about the bush. I am Mr. Wilson Turbot, and
this is my partner, Mr. William Eckert. We are in the business of
making moving picture films, and I understand that you are
associated with Mr. Period in this line. 'Spotty' we call him."

"Yes, I am doing some work for Mr. Period," admitted Tom,
cautiously.

"Have you done any yet?"

"No, but I expect to."