"That will be fairer," said Ronald, hoping Robert would the second time fall short of his own mark.
Again Robert took his place, and would not jump till Ronald himself had declared that he was in the right place. Then, making an extra effort, he cleared six feet and nine inches.
"You didn't make much by your doubting, Ronald," said Frank Perry. "Are you satisfied now?"
"I didn't bargain to jump against a circus boy," said Ronald, sullenly.
"That won't affect your chances at the picnic," said Sidney. "Robert won't be there."
"Nor I," said Charlie Davis.
"We are not much afraid of you, Charlie," said Sidney, smiling.
"Oh, I didn't half try!" said Charlie.
"It's lucky for us you didn't," said Sidney.
Ronald walked off in disgust, but Robert and Charlie remained with their new friends, whom they found pleasant and companionable. That was the last of the contests, but a game of ball was got up, in which the two circus boys joined.