So that when the Gem was ready to go to the starting line she was prepared to make the “try of her life,” as Betty expressed it.
There were six boats in the class that included the Gem. Some were about the same size, one was larger and one was smaller. In horse power they rated about the same, but some handicapping had been done by the judges. The Gem was to start four minutes after the first boat got away, and of course she would have to make up this time to win.
“But we can do it!” declared Betty, confidently.
As they were on their way to the starting line the girls noticed two boys rowing along the shore, looking intently as they proceeded.
“Say, you haven’t seen a big green canoe, with an Indian’s head painted in red on each end; have you?” asked one of the lads.
“No; why?” asked Grace.
“Someone took ours last night,” spoke the other boy. “We were going in the races with it, too. It was a dandy canoe!” and he seemed much depressed.
“That’s too bad,” spoke Betty sympathetically. “If we see anything of your canoe we’ll let you know.”
“Just send word to Tom Cardiff, over at Shaffer’s dock!” cried the elder boy eagerly. “There’s a reward of two dollars for anyone who finds it.”
“Poor fellows!” said Betty as they rowed off. “I’d give two dollars of my own now if we could find their canoe for them. They must be dreadfully disappointed. Well, shall we start?”