"A race!" exclaimed Allen, a rising young lawyer. "May we join in?"
"This is strictly a ladies' relay race," explained Mollie. "You may be judges, or starters and offer the prizes, though, if you like."
"And the prizes——?" suggested Frank, who was Will's special chum.
"Hot chocolates when we go back to town," said Betty quickly. "I know Grace will agree."
"Indeed I will," the latter said. "I don't care how much fun you make of me, but I am cold, and—and——"
"Us 'ikes tandy—don't us!" interrupted Will, mimicking the little twin brother and sister of Mollie, whose penchant for sweets was only equalled by the longing of Grace.
"Easy," said Betty softly. "Well, if we're going to race, let's do it. Boys, you see fair play. It's to be down to the bend and back."
"No, not back!" declared Amy. "I can't do as much as that at top speed."
"Well, then, just to the bend," agreed Betty, indicating a spot where the river made a turn, about a mile away.
"We'll skate along," suggested Allen. "It is a bit chilly, and the exercise will be good for us. Get ready girls. I'm sorry we haven't a pistol to fire."