And the upshot of it was that Eradicate was given a badge,
and put on a special post, far enough from Koku to keep the
two from quarreling, and where, even if he failed in keeping
a proper lookout, the old servant could do no harm by his
oversight.

"It'll please him, and won't hurt us," said Tom to his
father. "Koku will keep out any prying persons."

"I suppose you are doing well to keep it a secret, Tom,"
said Mr. Swift, "but it seems as if you might announce it
soon."

"Perhaps we may, Dad, if all goes well. I've given her a
partial shop-tryout, and she works well. But there is still
plenty to do. Did I tell you about meeting Blakeson?"

"Yes, and I can't understand why he should be in this
vicinity. Do you think he has had any intimation of what you
are doing?"

"It's hard to say, and yet I would not be surprised. When
Uncle Sam couldn't keep secret the fact of our first
soldiers sailing for France. How can I expect to keep this
secret? But they won't get any details until I'm ready, I'm
sure of that."

"Koku is a good discourager," said Mr. Swift, with a
chuckle. "You couldn't have a better guard, Tom."