“I’ve a good mind to withdraw,” suggested Jack.
“Not for the world, Jack. You must stick, and win it—if you can.”
“But I would rather have you win it,” persisted the president and general manager of the Zero Club.
“No, I won’t have it that way. Promise me you’ll try for the medal, and will do your best to win it.”
Jack demurred, but Harry would not listen, so finally he agreed to do as his friend wished.
The ice on the river was as smooth as glass, and the promises for some great races were very encouraging.
CHAPTER III.
THE RACES.
The following day dawned clear and bright. The races were to come off at ten, half-past ten and eleven o’clock, and long before this time the river in front of the town was alive with skaters.
Harry had some work to do at home, and did not appear until a little before ten. He found his friends anxiously awaiting him.
“Thought you had given it up,” said Boxy. “I know you are fairly aching to let Pete Sully win that five-miler.”