erything keeps up as it ought to and nothin' breaks
down, we'll be in ahead at the finish."

The race was far different from that in which the boys had engaged in
their track meets. In those contests endurance and a reserve of
strength were elements that counted almost as much for success as speed.

In the present race, however, there was no fear of exhaustion and if
the Black Growler only held to her course, the Go Ahead boys were
satisfied that they had little to fear.

When the Varmint II had gained a lead of about ten feet the distance
between the two boats remained stationary. Both now were moving
swiftly, the stern of each boat had settled low in the water and the
spray from the bow speedily drenched every one on board. All, however,
were unmindful of any thought of discomfort. Their eyes occasionally
were turned toward their rival, but in the main all were looking
straight ahead. The sound of the whistles of the yachts, many of which
now were slowly moving in a line parallel to that which the racers were
following, apparently indicated the delight of many that the Varmint II
was leading. Already it was manifest that the other contesting boats
had dropped back, as had been expected. The real race was between the
two rivals who now were ahead.

The first lap had been covered and the boats had made the first stake.
Here the skill of Sam manifested itself by the sharp turn which he told
Fred to make. The lead of ten feet had been decreased by at least a
yard. The relative positions of the two boats were maintained while
they both sped swiftly toward the next turn.

Taught by their rivals of the advantage a quick turn might bring, the
Varmint II here was sharply brought in and a shout of protest arose
from the Go Ahead boys when for a moment a collision appeared to be
unavoidable. The Black Growler yielded a little in her course, however,
and the danger was avoided, although the Varmint II by her trick
regained the yard which she had lost at the previous stake.

The boats now were speeding back toward the starting place. The entire
course covered eighteen and three-eighths miles and each boat was
supposed to cover the course three times.

When the racing motor-boats drew near the start a chorus of whistles
and cries were mingled in the salute which greeted them both.

The sounds to the Go Ahead boys seemed indistinct and far away. They
were all intent solely upon what the Varmint II might try to do when
the s