"I'm glad you think so," replied blushing Betty.
There came a freeze, and the river was just right for glorious skating and ice boating. The Spider had been brought to her dock again, and one pleasant afternoon, when there was a good, but not too cold or stiff a breeze, the party set off for another run. It was cool and clear, with no hint of storm.
They had not gone very far in the ice boat before they heard the approach of another behind them, and soon, to their surprise, they saw in the craft that was rapidly overcoming them Alice Jallow, and her three young friends. As they came up Jake Rossmore called patronizingly:
"Want a race?"
"Sure," answered Allen, nothing loath, for he had faith in his craft.
Soon the two gliders were on even terms, but it was soon seen that the rival boat carried more sail, and was better built for racing. It began to forge ahead of the Spider.
"I'll tell them you're coming!" jeered Sam Batty as he waved his hand to those he was leaving behind.
"Oh, can't you beat him?" exclaimed Mollie impulsively. "Do try, Allen!"
"I will, but they have the better boat."
He manœuvered as best he could, but it was of no use. The other boat shot ahead.