'It seems to me that they have sent the wrong sort, said the Doctor.
'Yes.
'Well, we must do the best we can. What other things ought there to be?
'Weight, harmner, javelin, long-jump pit, high-jump posts, low hurdles, eggs, spoons, and greasy pole, said Philbrick.
'Previous!y competed for, said the Doctor imperturbably. 'What else?
'Somewhere to run, suggested Paul.
'Why, God bless my soul, they've got the whole park! How did you manage yesterday for the heats?
'We judged the distance by eye.
'Then that is what we shall have to do to‑day. Really, my dear Pennyfeather, it is quite unlike you to fabricate difficulties in this way. I am afraid you are getting unnerved. Let them go on racing until it is time for tea; and remember, he added sagely, 'the longer the race the more time it takes. I leave the details to you. I am concerned with style. I wish, for instance, we had a starting pistol.
'Would this be any use? said Philbrick, producing an enormous service revolver. 'Only take care; it's loaded.