The girls saw little of Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Stone-- save passing
glimpses-- after the picnic. Grace telephoned to her father, who
promised to at once look into the matter.

"I do hope we win a prize!" exclaimed Mollie, on the evening of the
regatta. "The Gem looks lovely!"

"Yes, I think it is rather nice," admitted Betty.

The muslin, drawn tightly over the temporary frame, had been painted
until in the dark the boat bore a striking resemblance to a gondola,
even to the odd prow in front. It was arranged that Grace should stand
at the stern with a long oar, or what was to pass for it, while Betty
would run the motor and do the real steering. Mollie, Amy, and Aunt
Kate were to be passengers. Mollie borrowed a guitar and there was to
be music and singing as they took part in the water pageant.

"Well, it's time to start," announced Betty after supper. "We'll light
the Chinese lanterns after we get to our place in line," for the boats
were to be illuminated.

The Gem started off, being in the midst of many craft, all more or
less decorated, that were to take part in the affair.

CHAPTER XV

THE RACE

Like the scene from some simulated fairyland, or a stage picture, was