Chapter V — Ben Wins Again
"I am very glad you won," said Frank Jones, in a low voice.
"Thank you; so am I," answered Ben, smiling.
"Of course I should have preferred to win myself," continued Frank candidly; "but, as I saw that it lay between you and John Miles, I sided with you."
"Do you know Miles?"
"No, but I spoke with him just as the race began. I saw that he felt sure of winning. He boasted that he had practiced running at a gymnasium in Boston."
"Then I wonder he didn't beat me."
"He would on a short race; but your wind is better."
"I am glad to win, for the sake of the money," said Ben. "I have lost my place at the factory, and my aunt depends on my earnings."
"Then I am glad for you," said Frank. "I didn't need the money myself. If I had won, I would have given it to you, knowing your circumstances."