good," was thrust out from the room, and the race was then resumed.
Whenever either of the contestants lagged or one seemed to be gaining
slightly upon the other he was sharply bidden to make good his loss, and
when the two freshmen had come near the side of the room which they were
seeking to gain the collar buttons were close together and each freshman
could see the expression on his companion's face. Perhaps it was well
for them both that the members of the rival class could not see the
quiet glance which Hawley gave Will nor its equally keen response, but
the look was understood by both freshmen and they were aware that the
critical time in the contest was approaching.

They were by this time within two feet of the door which opened into
the hall. The sophomores who had been standing in front of it now moved
back to give the contestants room, and as Hawley perceived that the way
was clear, after looking up for a moment and glancing keenly at his
classmate, he suddenly leaped to his feet and Will instantly followed
his example. Before the astonished sophomores were fully aware of what
was occurring both had darted through the doorway after Hawley had with
almost incredible quickness flung open the door. Instantly it was
closed, and Hawley, seizing the iron handle of the catch and putting
forth all his strength, braced his feet against the wall and prepared to
hold the inmates prisoners in the room.

"Get Andrews and Briggs!" whispered Hawley, and Will quickly darted
across the hallway to the room of his two classmates. A word was
sufficient to inform them of what was occurring, and in an incredibly
brief time all three were standing beside Hawley.

The giant freshman was holding the door, which opened inward, easily,
though the sophomores in the room were striving desperately on their