of winning.

In the boathouse near by sat the members of both crews, mingling
on the most friendly terms. With them were some of the officials
of the race.

Dotted along the water front of the hotel grounds were many little
groups of waiting spectators in chairs, on campstools or sitting
on the grass.

In the morning buoys had been set on the lake at each end of a
measured course. The course was to be a mile, around the upper
buoy and returning to the starting line. The usual rules of boat
and canoe racing were to apply as to clear water, fouling and
the like, as well as the right of way at the upper buoy in case
the rival canoes were close together.

"It's half-past two o'clock now," announced the starter, glancing
at his watch.

"At two-forty," stated the referee, "I shall order both canoes
into the water. As soon after that as each crew captain chooses
he may put his men aboard and take such warming-up work as he
may wish. At two-fifty-six the first gun will be fired, and both
crews must come promptly to the judges' boat for alignment. At
exactly three the second shot will be fired---the starting signal.
Has either captain any questions to ask?"

Neither captain had any questions.