“I dared not relax from my role as a spy for a moment,” Narko added.  “I even grabbed the chance to plant that cache of firearms in Latty’s cellar to convince any rebel agents who might be watching me that I was on their side.  Tom, the rebels gave me the job of hijacking your space robot.  But, going on the brief messages that the CIA was able to get through to me, I guessed that you were using it as bait.”

“I guess we all owe you an apology,” Tom said.  “And our thanks.  We were lucky to have you on our side.”

“He saved the lives of a number of loyalist prisoners and gave the government forces some vital tip-offs of his own,” Ames added.

As Tom shook hands with Narko, the young Brungarian said warmly, “It is good to know that Tom Swift is my friend.”  With a chuckle, Narko added, “I know from experience that you certainly make a dangerous enemy!”

As the others gathered around to speak to Samson Narko and add their friendly congratulations, Bud slapped Tom on the back.

“Well, skipper, what’s next on the schedule?”

For a moment Tom did not reply.  He too wondered where his next scientific adventure would lead him.

Finally Tom turned to Bud.  “I’m not sure.  But who knows what space secrets Exman may have up his mechanical sleeve!”

*       *       *       *       *
*       *       *       *
*       *       *       *       *

[Errors noted by transcriber: 

Tom and Bud wore swimming trunks under their slacks.
  text reads swiming
Tom looked up, his blue eyes blazing.
  text has period for comma
KIDNAPED! [chapter title] and elsewhere
  spelling “kidnaped” consistent in text ]