“Briny deep is good,” laughed Andy. “Why, the water isn’t over twelve feet deep around here.”
“It’s deep enough to drown in. If you don’t believe it, stand on the bottom and find out.” And then there was a general laugh.
The race between the cadets of Putnam Hall and the boys from Pornell Academy was now about to start. Crack! went the pistol and down into the clear waters of Cayuga Lake went the oars.
“They are off!”
“And Putnam Hall leads!” came the cry half a minute later.
It was true, almost from the start Putnam Hall led by half a length. The oarsmanship of the crew was perfect, and the lead was held for the first half of the race.
“Oh, if only they can keep it up!” cried Pepper.
“Go it, boys, go it!” yelled Jack. “You’ve got to win!”
“Show ’em what Putnam Hall can do!” cried Andy.
On and on flew the two boats. Putnam Hall was still ahead, but only a few inches.