# Quick Thinking explained — The Missing Chums

> Chapter companion for The Missing Chums by Franklin W. Dixon.

## What happens

Frank Hardy's quick action at the helm averts a collision with sailboats, and the boys return home as a storm approaches. Later, at the Hardy barn, the chums engage in acrobatics and practical jokes, with Chet Morton's mischief leading to a humorous retaliation by Jerry Gilroy. The chapter ends with the boys unaware of the troubling news that awaits them.

## Themes in this chapter

### Courage and Resourcefulness

Frank's swift decision to take the wheel and navigate the Envoy out of danger exemplifies quick thinking under pressure.

### Friendship and Loyalty

The camaraderie among the chums is evident in their playful interactions and shared activities at the barn.

## Character check-ins

### Frank Hardy

Takes the helm to avert a collision, demonstrating quick thinking and leadership.

### Joe Hardy

Engages in a boxing lesson and later teases Biff Hooper, leading to a playful ducking.

### Chet Morton

Plays a practical joke on Jerry Gilroy with a flat stick, then becomes the victim of retaliation.

### Biff Hooper

Gives Joe a ducking for his remarks; later thanks Frank for averting the collision.

### Jerry Gilroy

Performs 'skinning the cat' on the trapeze and later gets revenge on Chet for the prank.

## Key lines

> Every second was precious. Frank Hardy realized the full extent of their peril and in the same moment he realized the only way of averting it. Without a word he sprang toward the helm, brushing Biff Hooper aside.

Frank Hardy instantly understood the danger and acted without hesitation, taking control of the wheel from Biff to prevent a crash.

_Highlights Frank's decisive and courageous nature in a crisis._

> He whooped with laughter, wiped the tears from his eyes, and leaned out of the window, spluttering with mirth.

Chet laughed so hard he cried, leaning out the window in sheer amusement.

_Captures Chet's exuberant enjoyment of his own practical joke._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_missing_chums_se/chapters/ii-quick-thinking
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_missing_chums_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_missing_chums_se/chapters