Tom headed for Mr. Bentley's place, which was on the outskirts of the
town. There was a full moon, and the night was just right for the kind
of observation Tom wanted to make. There were few persons abroad, and
the young inventor thought he would have no one spying on him.

They located the big house of Andy's uncle without trouble. Going down a
side street, they had a glimpse of a shed, built of new boards, standing
in the middle of a large lot. About the structure was a new, high wooden
fence, but as Tom and his friend passed along it they saw that a gate in
it was open.

"I'm going in!" whispered Tom.

"Will it be safe?" asked Mr. Damon.

"I don't care whether it will be or not. I've got to know what Andy is
doing. Come on! We'll take a chance!"

Cautiously they entered the enclosure. The big shed was dark, and stood
out conspicuously in the moonlight.

"There doesn't seem to be any one here," whispered Tom. "I wonder if we
could get a look in the window?"

"It's worth trying, anyhow," agreed Mr. Damon. "I'm with you, Tom."

They drew nearer to the shed. Suddenly Tom stepped on a stick, which
broke with a sharp report.

"Bless my spectacles!" cried Mr. Damon, half aloud.