That would have been enough, had Reade chosen to bury the ends and conceal all evidence of his work.

However, he believed that a more workmanlike way could be found.
From the same pocket Tom drew out a three inch piece of pure rubber cable, wrapped in water-proof tape.

This he fastened to the severed ends of the wire, binding the whole as neatly as a lineman could have done.
"Rubber is believed to be a pretty good insulator," chuckled Reade, as he finished.

"I don't believe the spark is made that can jump three inches of rubber.

Certainly magneto-power can't do it.