“That’ll be a little help to us,” said John in a low voice to Grant. “I hope Fred and Pop can give us a little lead to start out with.”
“I hope so too,” replied Grant.
“On your marks!” shouted Mr. Maxwell.
Four boys sat up alert and eager for the final word.
“Get set!”
Four paddles were raised and held poised for instant action.
“Go!”
The blades were dipped deeply into the water and the race was on. Side by side the two canoes sped along.
“You fellows better go out there and take your places,” said Mr. Maxwell, turning to the four boys who were to continue the race the next relay. “We don’t want any mixup then, you know. It would be a shame to have those boys paddle over half a mile for nothing.”
In response to his suggestion, Grant and John, and Hugh and Thomas, paddled slowly out to the starting line, there to await the arrival of their respective team-mates.