Then suddenly there came the sharp report of a pistol, which they all knew was to be the signal that would send those two boats forward with all the power that sixteen pairs of trained and muscular arms could bring to bear in exact unison!
Immediately a roar arose.
CHAPTER XXIV
A GREAT VICTORY
"They're off!"
"Mechanicsburg leads!"
"Yes, she does, smarty; better look again! They're tied, neck and neck!"
"But watch that stroke, will you; did you ever see anything so fine? Oh! you poor Riverport, get your tear-rags ready to weep!"
"Wait a little. You'll be laughing out of the other side of your mouth, Crabtree!"