chance of winning, and he wanted the watch. Several of his friends
of his own age had watches, either silver or Waterbury, and this
seemed, in his circumstances, the only chance of securing one. Now
he was apparently barred out.

"It's a pity you shouldn't skate, Luke," said Mr. Hooper, in a tone
of sympathy. "You are one of the best skaters, and had an excellent
chance of winning the prize. Is there any boy willing to lend Luke
his skates?"

"I will," said Frank Acken.

"My dear boy," said the teacher, "you forget that your feet
are several sizes smaller than Luke's."

"I didn't think of that," replied Frank, who was only twelve
years old.

"You may use my skates, Luke," said Linton Tomkins. "I think they
will fit you."

Linton was only thirteen, but he was unusually large for his age.

"You are very kind, Linton," said Luke, "but that will keep you out
of the race."

"I stand no chance of winning," said Linton, "and I will do my
skating afterward."

"I don't think that fair," said Randolph, with a frown. "Each boy