“Say!” he cried, “do I look soft? What do you take me for? I offered to show you the course in good faith, but if you’re going to give me this sort of hot air——”
“If you knew me better,” said Frank, in a convincing manner, “you would not accuse me of dealing in hot air. If we start out together to-day I’m going to tell you a few things that will interest you and may spur you on to victory.”
“Why should you do that? You’re out for the trophy, aren’t you?”
“I am; still I give you my word of honor, Bramwell, if I do not win I hope most sincerely that you will be the man to do so.”
Another person than Frank Merriwell might not have convinced Tom Bramwell that he was sincere in such a statement; but there was about Merry an indefinable something that always bespoke his absolute honesty and convinced the doubter and skeptic. Looking into Frank’s eyes, Bramwell was convinced.
“I thank you!” he exclaimed, with a flush of pleasure. “I am sure I don’t know why you feel that way toward me, but I appreciate it.”
CHAPTER XXII
WATCHING HIS CHANCE.
Herbert Hollingsworth was at the clubhouse when the map was suspended on the wall. He saw Merriwell arrive and begin to look the map over with the others.
“He’ll go out this morning,” decided the trainer. “It will give me the opportunity I am looking for. I must not miss it.”