ks out."

In a brief time the swiftly moving Black Growler arrived near the spot
which Fred had been informed would form one of the points in the
triangular course over which the race was to take place.

"I guess you have got some friends that want to try out the course
too," suggested Sam, pointing as he spoke to a motor-boat apparently of
the same size as the Black Growler.

Instantly glancing in the direction indicated by Sam, the Go Ahead boys
discovered the Varmint II nearby and from her actions it was plain that
she too was planning to test the course.

"Make her show what she can do!" said George eagerly, a demand in which
Miss Susie quickly joined.

"That's right," she exclaimed. "I just love to go fast. You can't make
the Black Growler move too fast to suit me."

The two boats now were following parallel lines, although they were
more than one hundred feet apart. It was manifest also that the crew of
the rival boat were aware of the purpose in the minds of the Go Ahead
boys and that they also were not unwilling to discover what one of
their rivals might be able to do in the coming race.

Conversation ceased as suddenly the Black Growler darted forward almost
as if she was a thing alive. The Varmint II started at the same moment
and an impromptu race was on.

The bow of the Black Growler at times seemed almost to be lifted above
the river. Dashes of water when the bow again struck were driven into
the faces of all on board. The spray soon made the cockpit as wet as if
a stream of water had been played upon it. The noise of the engine, the
splash of the water, the rushing river, the white and excited faces, as
well as the anxiety with which the Go Ahead boys watched the speed of
their rival, all combined to increase the prevailing excitement.
Apparently the two boats were moving almost neck and neck.

"We don't seem to gain on her, Sam," shouted Fred.

Sam turned and glared upon the boy, but did not reply to the
suggestion. He was giving his entire attention to the task of steering
the boat, glancing occasionally at his rival, which tenaciously was
holding to its course.

Several steamboats were passed and as the sight of the racing boats was
seen there was a wild rush of the passengers to the rail to watch the
contest.

For twenty minutes the unexpected race continued. At the expiration of
that time the Varmint II changed her course. Veering to the left she
swerved in a wide semi-circle, saluting