Effie Random said nothing, but she thrust her parasol into the ground with a wrench that broke it.
Frank was cheered and congratulated.
As soon as he could recover from his surprise and disappointment, Random shook Frank’s hand.
“You did the trick,” he said; “but I’ll beat you at the hurdle race. I see you are strong on the finish, and I’ll be looking out for you.”
“All right,” smiled Frank. “If you win that race, we’ll break even, but I shall do my best.”
Frank noticed that Hodge was not with those who crowded about to congratulate him. He looked for Bart, whom he discovered talking with Effie, and he saw Effie was speaking in an excited manner, a flush on her face.
Frank smiled.
“It looks as if she really wished to see me defeated. I wonder what she is saying to Hodge.”
He could see Bart shaking his head, while Effie seemed to be urging him to do something. The more Bart shook his head the more determined the girl became.
Frank was able to watch them but a moment, as his friends demanded his attention.