unscrewed the pump from the wheel. "Roger, we had better get back to that hotel just as fast as we can." "My idea, exactly, Dave, for I don't want to be caught on this hilly road in a storm." "Better put the top up," advised the shipowner's son. "It's going to pour in a few minutes." "And hadn't we better put on the chains, too, Roger?" questioned Dave. "It may be dangerous work going down the hill if it rains hard." "Yes, we'll put up the top and put on the chains," was the quick reply of the senator's son. "You fellows attend to the top and I'll see to the chains." By the time the top had been put up and fastened it was raining steadily. Also, the wind was beginning to blow, showing that the downpour was liable to become worse. "Fasten the side curtains, Phil; I'll help with the chains!" sang out Dave, and while the shipowner's son and Bert fastened the curtains, so as to keep out the driving rain, our hero aided Roger. "You'll get wet, Dave; better get in the car," panted Roger, who was working as rapidly as circumstances permitted. "No wetter than you," answered Dave, and then he pulled the second chain in place and fastened it. Both boys got into the touring-car just as a heavy crash of thunder sounded out. "Phew! listen to that, and look at the lightning!" cried Phil. "Say, if you are ready, Roger, we had better get out of here!" "If you can only get back to the hotel," murmured Bert, anxiously. "If I were you I'd not think of going home until the storm clears away." "Back to the hotel will be enough for me," answered Roger. "All ready?" he asked, for he had already cranked up. "All ready," answered Dave, who had gotten on the front seat, thus allowing Bert and Phil the better shelter of the tonneau of the car. The senator's son started up the automobile and made a circle on the top of the hill. Then, just as there came another flash of lightning and a loud crash of thunder, the boys began the long and perilous journey down the rough road leading from Sugar Hill. "Some rain, believe me!" It
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