Outside
the limits of the race there were scores of yachts and
motor-boats, whose owners with their guests had assembled to
watch the exciting contest. Patrol boats were noisily demanding
that the line should be kept clear and were busily speeding back
and forth to see that their demands were strictly enforced.
Before the boys had left Chestnut Island, Miss Susie Stevens and
her friend had arrived, the impulsive girl begging that she might
be permitted to be one of the company on board the Black Growler
during the race.
Her request, however, was denied. Only the four Go Ahead boys and
Sam were to be on board to manage the swift little craft.
When the boys advanced toward the starting place, they
discovered, after lots had been drawn for positions, that they
were next to the Varmint II, the latter boat having drawn number
four, while its chief rival was fifth in the line.
"Those fellows aren't so bad, after all," said George
good-naturedly to his companions when he saw the five men that
were on board the rival boat. "There we were suspecting them of
all sorts of tricks and yet nothing happened to the Black
Growler. We had our troubles for our pains."
"Huh!" interrupted Sam. "You aren't out of the woods yet. There's
no knowing what may happen before we turn the last stake."
"Sam," demanded Fred anxiously, "have you any reason to suspect
anything more?"
"Nothin' except that I know those fellows will not stop at
anything to win the race.
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