CHAPTER XVI -Tom Swift and His Electric Locomotive

In Chapter XVI of “Tom Swift and His Electric Locomotive,” titled “Off for the West,” Tom Swift deals with the aftermath of Joe Myrick’s betrayal. Myrick, previously an operative for the Blatz Detective Agency, was caught spying on Tom and possessing explosives intended to sabotage Tom’s electric locomotive project. Despite Blatz’s insistence that Myrick acted alone and without the agency’s knowledge, Tom remains skeptical but decides to move forward with his plans.

As Tom prepares to transport his invention, the Hercules 0001, to the West for a major job with the H. & P. A. railroad, he takes extensive security measures due to potential threats against the locomotive. He entrusts Koku, his loyal and strong assistant, with guarding the locomotive during its transport. Koku is locked inside the locomotive’s cab with food and a cot, though unarmed, as Tom relies on his strength rather than weaponry for protection.

The departure for the West is bittersweet, with Tom’s girlfriend, Mary Nestor, and his father coming to see him and his friend Ned Newton off. Mary expresses her concerns for Tom’s safety given the previous attempts on his invention and his life. Tom reassures her, reminding her of the precautions he’s taken, including relying on Koku and the promise that Mr. Damon, another ally, will soon join them.

The chapter also touches on Tom’s conviction that Andy O’Malley, a known desperado and part of the attempts to ruin Tom’s project, will not make a move against him personally. He believes the threat to his locomotive is more pressing than any direct physical danger to himself.

The chapter concludes with Tom and Ned boarding the train to Hendrickton, leaving behind worried but supportive loved ones. As they embark, Tom receives a telegram confirming that the Hercules 0001, along with Koku, has safely reached its first stop. This moment underscores Tom’s innovative approach to ensuring his project’s security and his determination to succeed despite opposition.

This chapter sets the stage for Tom’s and Ned’s journey into what they perceive as “enemy territory,” filled with both anticipation for their project and caution against the dangers posed by their adversaries. Tom’s confidence and meticulous planning highlight his character as an inventor determined to protect his creation and bring it to success.