“None at all,” replied the second gentleman.
These assertions attracted attention. On inquiry it was learned that the two gentlemen had been up at the island fishing. They had watched the race in the meanwhile, and they were willing to make affidavit that Jerry had not interfered in the slightest degree with Si Peters.
“He took the outside, and he really gave Peters more room than was necessary.”
The two gentlemen were too well known to be doubted in what they said, and at once the judges refused to accept Si Peters’ plea.
“The race goes to Jerry Upton, who won it fairly.”
Then how Jerry’s friends did yell with delight! The lad was pounced upon and raised up on his friends’ shoulders, and away went the boat club boys around the town, Blumpo in advance of them blowing a big fish-horn.
“You is de boy!” said the homeless youth. “You is de best oarsman on de lake!”
Harry was in the crowd, and when he told how he had outwitted Wash Crosby every one roared.
The race, however, made lots of ill-feeling. The Rockpoint boys could not stand defeat, and that evening half a dozen rows started in as many different places.
Sticks and stones were freely used, and many boys went home with their arms and heads tied up.