While the Clock Ticked (16 page)

Mr. Dalrymple rapped for order. “The time has arrived for action. “Do you know what’s going to happen—
while the clock ticks
?”

“We eat!” Chet piped up.

Everyone roared with laughter. Then Mr. Dalrymple said, “Hurd Applegate and I are ready to give the Hardy boys their well-earned reward—a fine vacation trip whenever they can take it.”

There was loud applause as Frank and Joe stepped up to receive a check made out to the Bayport Travel Agency.