Bang! It was the warning shot. Spectators along the Gridley shore crowded close to the bank to get a better view.
Bang! At the second shot fourteen boys dived into the water almost in the same second. Fourteen heads came up, one after another, and the young swimmers settled down to their work. A launch followed along on each side of the course, to pick up any who needed help.
"It was thoughtful of some one to provide launches for the Central swimmers," leered Martin.
"I hope neither launch will be needed for any of our fellows," Dick responded. "If either school has to have a fellow picked up, then of course that's the school which loses the race."
Hi didn't answer. Despite his confident brag, he was now very anxious over the outcome.
Along came the swimmers, all doing well, making a fine showing for a crowd of fourteen boys whose average age was only fourteen years.
From time to time spectators cheered favorite boys in either squad.
"Central wins!" yelled one enthusiast, as the swimmers neared the stakeboat off the pier.
"Don't you believe it," yelled another. "Wait for the finish."
There wasn't long to wait. As the swimmers came nearer it was seen that Dave Darrin was ahead of all the swimmers, though Tom Reade was pressing him hard. Behind Tom came Bill Rodgers, then Greg Holmes, next two more North Grammar boys. Dan was next, with Harry following. The three tailenders were North Grammar boys.