“Hmm. Let’s not jump to conclusions, son. But your theory might well explain why he never lets the public see his art collection.”
“Sure. If he’s stolen other masterpieces, he wouldn’t dare let an outsider glimpse them.”
Mr. Swift paced up and down. “You could be right. There have been a rash of art thefts in Europe. A number of famous paintings and other objects have been stolen. Vaxilis might be the mastermind behind those crimes and ruthless enough to pursue his art mania at any cost.”
“Dad, I’m going to Europe and see Vaxilis!”
Tom Sr. approved his son’s plan. Next morning when Tom spoke to Harlan Ames, the security chief also agreed that the sleuthing expedition might turn up additional clues-and warned the young inventor to be on guard against danger at all times.
Tom called Admiral Hopkins again and got an official okay to investigate the Centurion mystery further on his own. Then he placed a transatlantic call to Monaco. After talking to various underlings, Tom at last was allowed to speak to Petrov
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Vaxilis. Tom introduced himself and spoke as if he had a business deal in mind.
“Our inventions at Swift Enterprises can be put to many uses-we’ve hardly scratched the surface,” Tom said truthfully. “A farsighted businessman like you, Mr. Vaxilis, might find it very profitable to work out a project with us.”
“I’m flattered that such a famous scientist as Tom Swift should call me,” said Vaxilis. “I am always interested in looking into profitable new ideas. Perhaps you could fly here for a chat.”