Hook, as well as elsewhere--are working in the interest of the
United States to perfect a bigger cannon than any ever before
made. In fact, one has just been constructed, and is going to be
tried at the Sandy Hook proving grounds soon. I'm going to see
the test if I can.

"And here's another thing. Foreign nations are trying to steal
Uncle Sam's secrets. If this country gets a big cannon, some
other nation will want a bigger one. It's a constant warfare. I'm
going to devote my talents--such as they are--to Uncle Sam. I'm
going to make the biggest cannon in the world--the one that will
shoot the farthest and knock into smithereens all the other big
guns. That's the only way to protect the canal. Do you
understand, Ned?"

"Somewhat, Tom. Since I gave up my place in the bank, and
became a sort of handy-lad for you, I know more about your work.
But isn't it going to be dangerous to make a cannon like that?"

"Well, in a way, yes, Ned. But we've got to take chances, just
as father did when he invested ten thousand dollars in that opal
mine. He'll never see his money again."

"Don't you think so?"

"No, Ned."

"And when do you expect to start on your gun, Tom?"

"Right away. I'm making some plans now. I'm going down to Sandy