“Not exactly,” Ted replied. “But from what they said, I do know they’re planning to stay in the same orbit. It seems they cooked up this whole plot against you without the knowledge of
162 SPACE SOLARTRON
their government, so they don’t dare land anywhere with either of us aboard.
Their object is to learn the plans for your matter maker, and then palm it off as their own invention.”
“But how does that help us find their position?” Tom asked worriedly.
“I’m coming to that,” said Ted. “They took our watches away a while after we came aboard, but not before we learned that they always served our meals at regular intervals. That enabled us to judge the passing of time pretty well.”
Tom nodded. “And?”
“Your dad and I could tell, from glimpses we caught of the earth every so often, how long it was taking us to orbit-We found out that we passed over the same spot on earth every two and a half days.”
Tom slammed his fist into his palm. “Smart work, Ted! That clue identifies the height of their orbit! We’ll take off as soon as the ship is ready!”
CHAPTER XIX
FLAG OF TRUCE
AS TOM rushed to the wall panel and pushed the alarm button signaling a general alert, he had never been more excited in his life.
“Attention, everyone!” he shouted over the intercom. “Ted has just told me that my father is being held prisoner on an enemy rocket. We’ll try to intercept it.
As soon as the Challenger can be made ready, we’ll take off! You getting this, Arv?”
“Sure am, skipper,” came the reply.
“All right. Check the solartron, the energy collectors, and see that the ship’s repelatrons are okay. Everything must be in top working condition. Then muster all hands and make sure everybody’s aboard. Report when you’re ready.”