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The signal was given. Mr. Graham pulled a switch. But for a moment, nothing happened.

“It’s a dud—” War muttered.

His words were drowned by a mighty explosion which rocked the earth. Dirt and crushed stone flew high into the air.

“A dud, eh?” said Jack laughing, wiping dust from his clothes as he got quickly to his feet.

After an interval, the Scouts were permitted to inspect the great crater which had been made. The hole was fully fifteen feet across and nearly five feet deep.

“I guess a little knowledge comes in handy,” Bob remarked in awe. “It’s sure lucky we recognized that stuff as nitro.”

The Scouts thought no more of the incident. Therefore, it came as a distinct surprise, when on the following day, they received word that a recognition dinner was to be given in their honor. Explorers Post 21 members were instructed to present themselves at the Belton Hotel at six o’clock on Friday night.

“Do we have to go?” Willie asked Mr. Livingston in alarm.

“I would,” the Scout leader advised. “The mayor and the president of the auto plant are giving the dinner. You boys performed a fine service, so it’s only right that Belton should show appreciation.”