One of these was a better pump, which circulated the water around the
cylinders, and another was a new system of lubrication under forced
feed.

"This ought to give me a little more speed," reasoned Tom, who was not
yet satisfied with his craft. "Guess I'll take it out for a spin."

He was alone in the ARROW, taking a long course up the lake when, as he
passed a wooded point that concealed from view a sort of bay, he heard
the puffing of another motor-boat.

"Maybe that's Mr. Hastings," thought Tom. "If I raced with him now, I
think the ARROW could give a better account of herself."

The young inventor looked at the boat as it came into view. It needed
but a glance to show that it was not the CARLOPA. Then, as it came
nearer, Tom saw a familiar figure in it--a red-haired, squint-eyed chap.

"Andy Foger!" exclaimed Tom. "He's got a motor-boat! This is the
surprise he spoke of."

The boat was rapidly approaching him, and he saw that it was painted a
vivid red. Then he could make out the name on the bow, RED STREAK.
Andy was sending the craft toward him at a fast rate.

"You needn't think you're the only one on this lake who has a gasoline
boat!" called Andy boastfully. "This is my new one and the fastest
thing afloat around here. I can go all around you. Do you want to
race?"

It was a "dare," and Tom never took such things when he could
reasonably enter a contest. He swung his boat around so as to shoot
alongside of Andy and answered:

"Yes, I'll race you. Where to?"

"Down opposite Kolb's dock and back to this point," was the answer.
"I'll give you a start, as my engine has three cylinders. This is a
racing boat."

"I don't need any start," declared Tom. "I'll race you on even terms.
Go ahead!"

Both lads adjusted their timers to get more speed. The water began to
curl away from the sharp prows, the motors exploded faster and faster.
The race was on between the ARROW and the RED STREAK.

CHAPTER VIII

OFF ON A TRIP

Glancing with critical eyes at the craft of his rival, Tom saw that
Andy Foger had a very fine boat. The young inventor also realized that
if he was to come anywhere near winning the race he would have to get
the utmost speed out of his engine, for the new boat the bully had was
designed primarily, for racing, while Tom's was an all-around pleasure
craft, though capable of something in the speed line.

"I'll be giving you a tow in a few minutes, as soon as my e