“The hotel people have asked me to run it off for them,” he added. “From now on I’m to work there as a lifeguard. I’ll take Raymond Curry’s place and make a much better salary.”
The Brownies were sorry to know that their friend no longer would be at the cottage beach. Of course, it did not really matter, for after Sunday they would be in Rosedale again. They were happy that he was to have a better job, and especially pleased that the turtle race was to be run.
“How soon does it start?” Vevi demanded, fairly beside herself with excitement.
“Sharp at two o’clock.”
“It’s almost that now,” Vevi gasped. “I must get Clover right away. I hope he’s feeling well.”
All the Brownies ran with her to the cottage to fetch the turtle. When they lifted Clover out of the pan, he snapped and tried to get away.
“He’s feeling well, all right!” laughed Vevi.
By the time the Brownies reached the hotel lawn, many other children had gathered there. Nearly everyone had a turtle to race.
A large white circle had been drawn on the grass. Mr. Fulsom explained the rules. He said the turtles would start from the center of the ring. The one which first crossed the chalk line would be declared the winner.
All the children, including Vevi, carried their entries to the center of the ring. After the turtles were set down on the grass, Mr. Fulsom told the children to step back.