"There, the
fellows are piling on the raft."
From the distance the spectators could see the two swimming teams
lining up on the raft. They could also make out that Len Spencer
was addressing the boys from the raft.
Bang! It was the warning shot. Spectators along the Gridley
shore crowded close to the bank to get a better view.
Bang! At the second shot fourteen boys dived into the water almost
in the same second. Fourteen heads came up, one after another,
and the young swimmers settled down to their work. A launch followed
along on each side of the course, to pick up any who needed help.
"It was thoughtful of some one to provide launches for the Central
swimmers," leered Martin.
"I hope neither launch will be needed for any of our fellows,"
Dick responded. "If either school has to have a fellow picked
up, then of course that's the school which loses the race."
Hi didn't answer. Despite his confident brag, he was now very
anxious over the outcome.
Along came the swimmers, all doing well, making a fine showing
for a crowd of fourteen boys whose average age was only fourteen
years.
From time to time spectators cheered favorite boys in either squad.
"Central wins!" yelled one enthusiast, as the swimmers neared
the stakeboat off the pier.
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