Kwanu shook his head. “I fear not. In view of the theft of the briefcase, I must return to Washington at once and make a full report to my government. Then, early tomorrow, I am scheduled to
26 REPELATRON SKYWAY
fly to Africa for an important cabinet meeting. In any case, you will no doubt need several days to consider the project before coming to a decision.”
“Right, sir,” Tom agreed. “And of course we’d want to make a preliminary survey of our own before taking on the job.” On this note the meeting broke up.
Mr. Swift arrived from Fearing Island late that afternoon. Upon hearing of the Ngombian project, he telephoned Ned Newton at the Swift Construction Company, which manufactured the inventions developed at Enterprises. That evening Torn and the two older men gathered in Mr. Swift’s den to discuss the matter.
“I’d say the project is worth looking into,” said Mr. Newton. “We’d be helping a new democratic country in Africa, and a successful job over there would be a credit to America-if you two Toms can lick the engineering problems.”
Mr. Swift’s eyes lighted with enthusiasm. Trim and boyish looking, with keen blue eyes and only slightly graying hair, he closely resembled his taller, lankier son. “I agree, Ned. However, I’ll be tied up on our government aerospace research-which means that Tom here will have to take charge. How about it, son?”
“I’d sure like to try, Dad. With you backing me up on the engineering end, and Uncle Ned on costs, I might be able to handle it.”
Tom Sr. smiled at the young inventor. “Any ideas on how to lay this jungle highway?”