urroundings and thoughts of
the impending meet were too keen to be entirely overcome by the young
freshman, and on the following morning his heart was somewhat heavy and
his fears increased.

When at last the hour arrived when the team, in a huge coach, was taken
to the field, a measure of calm had returned to him and as he looked out
over the great assembly his interest became intense. Students from the
various colleges had been assigned sections in the bleachers and
streamers and banners with the huge initial letter of the college
emblazoned upon them were much in evidence. The colors of the competing
colleges were also to be seen among the spectators and with shouts and
cheers and songs to be heard on every side Will felt that this was the
supreme moment of his life. He stood gazing at the inspiring sight until
he felt a touch on his shoulder that caused him quickly to turn about.

"Why, pop!" he exclaimed delightedly as he perceived who it was that had
touched him. "I didn't have the remotest idea that you were here."

"I had to come to see what my boy would do," replied Mr. Phelps quietly.

"I'm afraid you won't see much."

"I shall see him do his best, and that's worth the trip."

"Come on, freshman!" interrupted Mott approaching. "It's time to dress."

Will grasped his father's hand for a moment and then hastened to follow
the other members of the Winthrop team who were making their way to
their quarters.

"Alden is going to win all the sprints," said Mott glumly while they
were dressing.

"If they're the best runners they will," assented Will who despite his
eagerness was now in good spirits.

"Wagner has figured it out and says if they do win the sprints they'll
take the cup."

Will made no response though he knew that if Wagner had indeed said
that, then the college would look to Mott and to himself to do their
best. No praise would be too high if they should succeed, and no blame
too severe if they should fail. And his own determination and desire to
win for a moment faltered. What could he in his first great contest
hope to do?

The appearance of the team on the field was greeted by a wild shout from
the Winthrop contingent. The team was cheered and every member of it
also was cheered by name. The entire scene was certainly inspiring and
Will's determination returned more strongly than before. The first event
was the four hundred and forty yard dash in which Alden received first
and Winthrop s