"It is Andy Grant, the son of Farmer Grant."
"Why haven't I seen him before?"
"He has been absent at school—at Penhurst Academy."
"He knows how to row. See how he handles his oars."
"I didn't know he was a rower."
"He is, and a good one. I shouldn't be surprised if he wins the race."
"What, against Conrad Carter?" asked the superintendent, incredulously.
"Yes. It is easy to see that he has been trained, while Conrad, though he pulls a strong oar, rows like a country amateur."
Conrad was so intent upon his own work that he had not had an opportunity of watching his competitors. When he had nearly reached the point selected on the other bank, he turned about and saw Andy close behind him.
Andy was not apparently exerting himself, but pulled a strong, steady stroke, and seemed quite free from excitement. For the first time Conrad saw that he was a competitor not to be despised.