Frank looked up and observed the fellow.
“Hello, Bramwell,” he said. “Going out to look the course over to see what we’re up against, are you?”
“That’s the idea,” laughed Bramwell. “Four fellows have started already. I see you’re going, too.”
“Yes. My friend Hodge is coming with me. Won’t you join us?”
“Sure. I know the country hereabouts pretty well, and I may be able to help you in following the course.”
“Thank you,” said Frank. “If you can give me any assistance that way I shall try to repay the favor in some manner.”
“Oh! that’s all right,” assured the Ashport man. “Every starter must know the course. After that if he can find any means of covering it easier or quicker than the rest, that’s his privilege.”
“Well, I reckon some of them will find a few short cuts,” muttered Hodge.
“One has already, that’s sure,” said Frank, in a low tone.
Bramwell cast a quick glance toward them, having failed to catch their words, although he heard them say something.