Jerry dimly heard the revolver shot that sent the two last boats off. But he did not care for them. He wanted to overhaul those in the lead. This he seemed in a fair way to be able to do. None of the craft was speedy, and, though their ten seconds start gave them an advantage, the Dartaway was soon close to the rear one.
Notch by notch Jerry gave the engine more gasolene, and, notch by notch he advanced the spark lever. He was crouching down low, as were the other boys, to offer less resistance to the wind. Slowly the Dartaway was creeping up to one of the leading boats, and a little later passed it. Then it overhauled another.
Just as the first leg of the triangular course was rounded Jerry threw in the third speed, and shut off a little of the power. At the same instant he passed the last one of the three boats that had gotten off first and the Dartaway was now in the lead. A thrill possessed him. The Dartaway might win.
But, as he turned his head, he saw that the Snail had also crept up, until, passing the others, it was on even terms with the boys’ boat. The Dartaway was not going to have things her own way.
Jerry had no thought for the other craft now. It was a contest with the Snail only. The two boats were evenly matched and those aboard knew best how to get the speed out of them.
It was bow and bow between the two, almost to the second stake. Then Jerry slightly advanced the spark lever and the Dartaway shot ahead. Only for an instant, however, as the Snail was right after her.
“I’d like to lose her,” thought Jerry.
He gave one look behind him. The two boats which had started last were close up, but Jerry had no fear of them. The engine of one, he could tell by the sound, was missing explosions, and the other was wheezing and coughing in a way that indicated loss of power. It was now a race between the Dartaway and the Snail.
They were on the last leg. Jerry could hear the shouts of the excited spectators. It was a race worth seeing.