We saw one of the machinists of the 'Farnum,' sir, hanging about on
shore. So we invited him aboard and asked him to look the engines over."
"Describe the man," begged Jack.
The senior machinist gave a description that instantly denoted Sam Truax
as the man in question.
"Did you leave him alone in here, at any time?" demanded Hal.
"Let me see. Why, yes, sir. The man must have been alone in here some
three-quarters of an hour."
Jack and Hal exchanged swift glances.
There seemed, now, very little need of carrying the investigation further.
CHAPTER XV: ANOTHER TURN AT HARD LUCK
When he could trust himself to speak Hal Hastings addressed the naval
officer.
"I think Mr. Benson and myself understand, sir, how it happened that this
damage was done. There are extra parts in the repair kit. In twenty
minutes, sir, I think we can have the engines running smoothly once more."
The naval officer was wise enough not to press the questioning further
just then. Instead, he went on deck.
Working like beavers, and with the assistance of others standing about,
Jack and Hal had the piston replaced and all the other parts in place
within fifteen minutes.
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