"Yes, I am only a boy, St. John, but I reckon I can row as good as you," replied our hero warmly. He had not forgotten the encounter on the road.
"Do you, indeed?"
"Yes, I do. Some day we can try a race. I'll give you choice of boats and beat you."
At this Marion set up a merry laugh.
"I believe Jack can beat you at rowing, St. John," she said.
"I never race with boys," answered the spendthrift, more stiffly than ever.
"I'll race you to-day," went on Jack. "And I've rowed three or four miles already."
"Oh, Jack! you are too tired and the sun is too strong," remonstrated Mrs. Ruthven, although inwardly pleased to see the lad stand up for himself.
"I said I never raced with boys," said St. John.
"I would like to see a race," came from Marion. "I dare you to row Jack, St. John."