“Yes, mother!”
“Well, do be careful, Victor. And don’t fail to send a card home this afternoon.”
Victor promised, his face glowing with anticipation.
“We are going to have a ripping time, mother!” he shouted. “Hooray! Let her whizz, Somers!”
CHAPTER II
THE FIRST LAP
The crisp staccato notes of the motor suddenly drowned the sound of his voice. From the exhaust poured a bluish haze of gasoline vapor. The car apparently became vibrant with life and energy. Then, as the rapid-fire roar quickly lessened to a low musical drone, Bob Somers threw in the clutch.
In the midst of a chorus of good-byes, the motor car began to glide smoothly away, and, upon looking back, the boys saw the lady at the window waving her handkerchief.
“Oh, isn’t this just stunning!” cried Victor. “Hit it up, Somers.”
Row after row of residences seemed to be drawn swiftly toward them and sent slipping behind. At each street crossing Bob slowed up, allowing the boys momentary views of Lake Michigan, only a short distance away.
The few vehicles and pedestrians about appeared as mere crawling things whenever the high-powered car leaped forward in obedience to the summons of its master’s hand.