Black Growler was following until he was nearer the rival boat.
It was plain now that the crew of the Varmint II were deeply
interested in the Black Growler. They were watching her movements
and eagerly talking to the man at the wheel.

For several minutes the race continued and then abruptly the
Varmint II shut off part of her power and speedily dropped
behind.

"I told you what would happen," said Fred exultantly. "I would
like to run away from that boat in a race. There isn't a boat on
the St. Lawrence I would like better to beat."

"But you don't even know she is going to be on the St. Lawrence
or in that race," suggested John.

"That's right. That's right," said Fred dolefully. "There's
always somebody taking the joy out of life. You mark my words,
that boat is going to the St. Lawrence and we'll find her in the
race when we leave the stake."

"I hope so," said Grant. "It will be a great race if she's in it!
But honestly, Fred, if you knew a little more about steering a
boat I think you could win from her. How would it do for you to
get somebody to steer, the day of the race?"

"That's right," spoke up George quickly. "All the Black Growler
needs is a pilot."

"That--is--most--certainly true," said John slowly, winking at