He handed each of the boys a small crystal cube. Tom and Bud examined them and gasped. Embedded in each was a tiny carven black cobra, coiled to strike!
CHAPTER VIII
MISSILE BREAKTHROUGH
TOM’S pulse quickened. What was the meaning of the cobra image? Had he and Bud walked straight into the enemy’s clutches?
The boys’ faces must have shown their suspicions, for the old man hastily reassured them. “The name ‘Black Cobra’ is not unknown to you, I see. But do not be alarmed. These two talismans were obtained at great risk, and it is our hope that they may serve to protect you, should you ever fall into the power of enemy agents. Carry them at all times!”
“Our hope?” Tom repeated the words question-ingly. “Does this mean that you belong to some organization, sir?”
Their host pretended not to have heard. He went on smoothly, “You are wondering, perhaps, why it was necessary to come here? Why could the cubes not have been sent to you?”
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MISSILE BREAKTHROUGH 65
“Now that you mention it, why?” Bud asked.
The Oriental smiled. “There is an old proverb: Only Buddha knows if arrow will reach mark. It was most important that these small talismans reach Tom Swift and his friend safely. Certain people might wish otherwise. So it seemed wisest to hand them to you in person.”
Tom nodded. “I see. Is it permitted to ask just who you are?” he inquired bluntly.
“Your humble friend and servant.” The old man bowed, then straightened and pressed a wall button.
The young woman in green reappeared so promptly that Tom suspected she had been standing on the other side of the door. The elderly Oriental spoke to her in the same singsong language, then turned back to the boys.
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