In the meantime, a committee of three radio experts had been examining
the sets submitted in competition. They subjected them to various
tests, taking into account the care displayed in workmanship, the
ingenuity shown in the choice of materials, and the clearness of tone
discerned when each in turn was connected with the aerial and put to
a practical test. The choice was difficult, for many of them showed
surprising excellence for amateurs.
At last, however, the awards were decided on, and Mr. Ferberton,
holding the list in his hand, advanced to the edge of the platform.
The silence became so intense that one could almost have heard
a pin drop.
"The first prize," he said after a few words of introduction,
"is awarded to Robert Layton."
There was a roar of applause, for no one in town was more popular
than Bob.
"The second prize goes to Joseph Atwood," continued Mr. Ferberton,
and again the hall rocked with applause.
"If there had been a third prize," the speaker concluded, "it would
have been awarded to James Plummer. As it is, he receives honorable
mention." And Jimmy too had his share of the cheering and hand
clapping.
Long after the lights were out and the audience dispersed, the chums
sat on Bob's porch, elated and hilarious.
"I'm the only rank outsider," grinned Herb.
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