Thus was sown a little seed that was destined to bear much fruit and bring about a closer relation of the two schools.
The talk of the chief and his friends was heard in the crowd and was repeated. From mouth to mouth the news flew:
"Waterside was afraid to row Riverview and that started the fight." This rumor spread, gaining at each telling until it was heard by the retreating lads from the school that had insulted our heroes' crew.
"Afraid of those dubs?" cried one indignant and dripping Waterside lad. "Not on your life!"
"Then why don't you row them?" asked someone.
"They're not in our class."
"You're afraid, I guess."
"We are not."
"Then give them a race. That's the best way to prove it."
"Oh, what do you know about it, anyhow?" and with this rather ungracious retort the school lad hurried away to join his fellows.