ebruary came he even
threw this aid aside, and by March was seen taking his part in school
rushes, as though he had never been injured at all. But his skates
were never once used all winter, nor could he indulge in any
sledding, both of which were favorite pleasures with K. K.

On the whole, however, he felt that he had much to be thankful for;
and tried not to be too greatly disappointed. But his chums would
miss him when the Marathon race was on; because he had been accounted
one of the best long-distance runners without exception that Scranton
High could boast.

CHAPTER XVII

SCRANTON'S "OPEN-HOUSE" DAY

Saturday opened with a promise of fair weather, and thousands of
anxious hearts beat high with satisfaction when this important fact
became manifest.

Before the morning was half over many strangers were noticed in town,
having taken the day off in order to attend the wonderful meet, of
which so much had been said. Every boy in Scranton was wild-eyed,
and on the run most of the time, trying to be here, there, and in
half a dozen places at once, if such a thing were possible.

Indeed, there was so much going on it reminded some people of the
famous circus that visited the town two years back, with three
separate rings, and something taking place in each at the same time;
so that the spectators hardly knew how to take it all in and keep
from being cross-eyed.

Out at the athletic grounds there were crowds gathered. Men were
working at the fence, while another gang, under the orders of Mr.
Leonard, carefully put in place such paraphernalia as would be needed
in carrying out the programme. Even the big pole had been well
greased for the climbing match; while the hurdles for the obstacle
race were ready to be placed in position at the proper time; and a
thousand and one other matters engaged the attention of the physical
director, who was probably the most industrious man in seven counties
that Saturday A.M.

Nor was that all. Some of the would-be contestants, not wholly
satisfied with their record for proficiency, and wishing to key
themselves up to top-notch speed against the now near hour of trial,
were on the ground, and in their working togs. Here a bunch galloped
swiftly around the cinder path, with one of their number holding the
watch on them to ascertain what time they made. Further along
several other fellows were jumping with might and main, and showing
either jubilation or deep chagri