a new power pump installed last week. I will attach it, and then you
can start up the motor."

"A power pump! Say, that beats hand pumping all to pieces."

"Indeed, it does!" broke in Sam. "I never minded putting on a new
tire, but the pumping-up always came hard."

"Say, this puts me in mind of a story," came from Tom, with a grin.
"Some Germans were going on an automobile tour, and a friend was
bidding them good-bye. Says the friend: 'Uf you haf a blowout, be sure
and haf it in de right place-- at de hotel!'" And at this little joke
there was a general laugh.

Five minutes more found them again on the way, and now Songbird had
the large lights turned on, which made the roadway ahead as bright as
day. He drove as speedily as possible, but with great care, avoiding
everything that looked as if it might harm the tires.

"Oh, what a splendid time I have had!" exclaimed Minnie, as, all too
soon, the Sanderson homestead was reached. Then Songbird assisted her
to alight, and insisted upon accompanying her into the cottage.

"I will wager he would rather stay here than go on to Brill," remarked
Tom, slyly.

"Sure thing!" returned Sam. "Wouldn't we rather remain at Hope than go
to Brill?" And at this pointed remark both of the girls giggled.

Those outside waited for several minutes, and then Tom sounded the