Arrangements were made for a skating contest to take place very soon. One of the gentlemen of the village offered a "badge of honor" to the swiftest skater on the pond—the one who could win the race.
Paul Rains entered, as also did Bartley Hodge and Sammy Smiles from the academy. Three village boys entered.
Then Hodge sought Frank, saying:
"Come, old man, we want you in this race."
"Oh, I am busy," laughed Frank, noticing that Inza was near, although he did not glance in her direction. "I am teaching Miss Blossom to skate, and she is getting on famously."
"Well, I think she will excuse you a few minutes. You may go on with your lessons after the race."
"Oh, say, can't you get along without me?"
"Can't anyway; you must come along."
"Well, if I must, I must," murmured Frank, with mock distress. "I will see you later, Miss Blossom, and we will do our best to induce that left foot to make the stroke properly."
So, bowing and smiling, he left her, and, in her heart, Inza cried: