Flint's avaricious mind wavered between a scheme nearing success
and the possibility of failure and the fear of the Automaton. Balcom
strained to hear the purport of the message that Locke was receiving.
At the sound of the chemist's voice Locke was tense with suppressed
excitement.
"I've found the antidote," hastened to report the professor.
With a cordial word of thanks Locke turned from the telephone and faced
the group in the room. As he made the announcement, Eva almost embraced
him in the flood of relief at the thought of her father restored.
"Eva," growled Balcom, "you forget yourself. As Paul's father, I cannot
countenance such actions."
"Mr. Balcom," interrupted Locke, "I am sure you will be kind in your
criticism of Miss Brent. She has merely overrated my service to her."
"Paul shall hear of this," stormed Balcom.
"If your son cares to take the matter up with me," returned Locke, now
on his dignity, "I am always to be found--here."
"Never mind," interposed Flint, who feared to see his chance slipping,
"I've got to get out of the country. Mr. Locke, your antidote is
probably valueless; mine is the certain one.
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