The further on the two yachts went the lighter became the wind, and each in turn ran into “soft” spots, when balloon top-sails hung up and down idly.
But no matter how the wind came the Defender got along, leaving the Spray steadily behind.
It was a triangular course, of three miles to each side, and soon the first side was sailed.
The yachts wore around the first mark flat, leaving it on the port hand.
Baby jib top-sails had been sent down before the rounding, and spinnaker poles were now ready for the balloon sail.
With booms well off to port, the Defender led the way to the second stretch.
Sharp work was done in handling the spinnaker, for just one minute after rounding this big balloon was set and pulling.
This was clever work, but the Spray sailors did fully as as well, for they had their spinnaker on just as fast.
“Great Caesar!” ejaculated our hero, suddenly, “Look!”
Ashore the sky grew black and ominous, foreboding a coming squall.