ONCE Tom Swift had made up his mind to do a thing he did it--
even though it was against his better judgment. His word, passed,
was his bond.

In conformity then with his decision to take Mr. Damon and the
latter's friend, Mr. Hardley, on an undersea search for treasure,
Tom at once proceeded to make his preparations. Ned, too, had his
work to do, since the decision to make what might be a long trip
would necessitate a change in Tom's plans. But, as in everything
he did, he threw himself into this whole-heartedly and with
enthusiasm.

Not once did Tom Swift admit to himself that he was going into
this scheme because he thought well of it. It was all for Mr.
Damon, after Tom had learned that his friend had invested
considerable money in a company Mr. Hardley had formed to pay
half the expenses of the trip.

Tom even tried to buy Mr. Damon off, by offering the latter
back all the money the eccentric man had invested with his new
friend. But Mr. Damon exclaimed:

"Bless my gasolene tank, Tom! I'm in this thing as much for the
love of adventure, as I am for the money. Now let's go on with
it. You will like Hardley better when you know him better."

"Perhaps," said Tom dryly, but he did not think so.