"Yes, I see that I must practice more."
"There will be no need for me to practice," said Conrad to himself. "I've got a dead sure thing."
It might have been supposed that Conrad would be indifferent to the money value of the prize offered, but he had extravagant tastes, and found his allowance from his father, though a liberal one, insufficient for his needs. He began to consider in what way he would spend the money, which he considered as good as won.
At length the day for the picnic dawned. The day previous had been unpleasant, and there had been considerable anxiety lest the weather should prove unpleasant. But greatly to the general satisfaction it was bright with sunshine, and the temperature was delightful.
The young people of both societies turned out en masse and looked forward to a good time.
The race had been fixed for half-past three o'clock. At that hour the superintendent of the Sunday school came forward and said:
"Owing to the liberality of Mr. Gale, of New York, a boarder at the hotel, a prize of ten dollars has been offered to the best oarsman who may compete for it. Boats will start from the pier, and the course will be to the opposite bank of the pond and back. I am sure that this will prove a very attractive feature of our picnic. Boys who intend to compete will now present themselves."
The first to come forward was Conrad Carter. He was dressed in a handsome boating costume, and his manner indicated great confidence. He looked around for Valentine, but the latter made no motion toward the shore, though his boat was in the pond drawn up with the rest.
"Aren't you going to row, Valentine?" asked Conrad, in surprise.
"No; I have lent my boat to Andy Grant."