Chapter VIII A Suspected PlotThe officer's words were so filled with meaning that Tom started. Ned Newton, too, showed the effect he felt.
"Do you really mean that?" asked the young inventor, looking around to make sure his father was not present. On account of Professor Swift's weak heart, Tom wished to spare him all possible worry.
"I certainly do mean it," insisted Lieutenant Marbury. "And, while I am rather amazed at the news of the fire, for I did not think the plotters would be so bold as that, it is in line with what I expected, and what we suspected in Washington ."
"And that was--what?" asked Tom.
"The existence of a well-laid plot, not only against our government, but against you!"
"And why have they singled me out?" Tom demanded.
"I might as well tell it from the beginning
