"There's the other!" exclaimed Norwood, as the Skylark was dimly perceived in the distance.
"She is half a mile astern. It is a bad beat for one of them."
"That's so; and if it is the Sea Foam, I shall want to throw up the contract for the Maud," said Rodman.
"There is one thing about it; both of those craft are good sea boats, and if they can carry whole jib and mainsail in this blow, they are just the right kind of yachts for me. I like an able boat, even if she don't win any prizes. Give me a stiff boat before a fast one."
"I should like to have mine both stiff and fast."
"Look at the Christabel. She went round the course with a reef in the fore and main sails, and was beaten at that," added Norwood. "Here comes the head boat. It is the Skylark, as sure as you live."
"Not much, Frank. Do you see her figure-head? Is it a bird?" demanded Rodman, triumphantly.
"It isn't; that's a fact."
"That's the Sea Foam fast enough."
This was exciting news, and Sam Rodman walked rapidly to the companion-way of the Penobscot.