Before setting out on their trip, Hal had spent
half an hour over the maps of the road, that there might be no danger
of their getting lost, and the lay of the country was firmly impressed
upon his mind.
As they wended their way slowly through the streets of Nanteul, there
came suddenly the sound of an explosion beneath them. Hal brought the car
to an abrupt stop and leaped lightly to the ground. Chester did likewise.
"Tire blown out," said Hal briefly, after a quick glance at the rear
left-hand wheel.
He walked to the rear of the car, where a spare tire should have been
ready for just such an emergency. There was none there.
The lad stepped back with an exclamation of dismay.
"What's the matter?" asked Chester.
"Matter is that we have no spare tire," replied Hal. "Where shall
we get one?"
"I don't know," returned Chester. "The chances are that every spare tire
within forty miles is in use. However, we might go into this restaurant
and make some inquiries."
Hal followed his friend into the restaurant, where Chester made known
their wants.
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