"He's doubtful," muttered one of Paul's friends.
"He's losing courage," said another.
Pressing his lips together, Frank made the run, and the watchers held their breath as he jumped.
"He's tied Rains!"
"Not much! He's behind!"
"Rains holds the lead!"
"Great Scott! is that Merriwell's best!"
Bascomb thumped Wat Snell on the back.
"What'd I tell you!" he laughed in Snell's ear. "This is right where Merriwell loses some of his glory. Rains has beaten him."
"This time, perhaps," admitted Snell; "but there is another jump to follow, and the best score made is the one that decides the contest. You will find Merriwell is not beaten yet."