"Don't worry!" Dick shouted back, waving his hand. "Gridley is going to win!"
"Yes, sirree!" called Bob Hartwell, laughingly. "Preston High
School guarantees Gridley to be a winner—-for second place!"
People now came crowding down upon the float to such an extent that Mr. Wright had to use the services of four hotel employs in coaxing them to keep back out of the way of the crews.
"No further admittance to the float, ladies and gentlemen!" called the hotel manager. "Keep it clear for the use of the crews!"
"Remember, Prescott," shouted a voice, "nothing but a win!"
"That's the Gridley way," Dick called back.
"Crew captains!" shouted the referee. "Ready to launch your craft!
Time for a bit of preliminary practice."
"Take hold and launch!" cried Bob Hartwell, running forward.
Over into the water went the Preston High School canoe with a splash. The Preston boys began to fill their places.
"Gridley, stand by to launch!" called Prescott, "Slide her in, easily!"