Our hero spent the next few
days in tuning up his motor and in getting the ARROW ready for the
contest.
The races took place on that side of Lake Carlopa near where Mr.
Hastings lived, and he was one of the officials of the club.
There were several classes, graded according to the horsepower of
the motors, and Tom found himself in a class with Andy Foger.
"Here's where I beat you," boasted the red-haired youth
exultantly, though his manner toward Tom was more temperate than
usual. Andy had learned a lesson.
"Well, if you can beat me I'll give you credit for it," answered
Tom.
The first race was for high-powered craft, and in this Mr.
Hastings' new CARLOPA won. Then came the trial of the small
boats, and Tom was pleased to note that Miss Nestor was on hand in
the tiny DOT.
"Good luck!" he called to her as he was adjusting his timer, for
his turn would come soon. "Remember what I told you about the
spark," for he had given her a few lessons.
"If I win it will be due to you," she called brightly.
She did win, coming in ahead of several confident lads who had
better boats. But Miss Nestor handled the DOT to perfection and
crossed the line a boat's length ahead of her nearest competitor.
"Fine!" cried Tom, and then came the warning gun that told him to
get ready for his trial.
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