"I was worried some myself," admitted Mr. Melton, "but I suppose I ought
to have known better."

Meanwhile Bert had taken a shower, and started to dress. In a few minutes
he was ready to leave the dressing room, and they all started out. Just
as Bert was going through the door Johnson, who had had a hard time
getting through the crowd, entered. As they passed Bert said, "Maybe this
will teach you to stick to straight racing, Summers. Take my advice and
cut out the crooked stuff. It doesn't pay in the end."

The defeated athlete started, and muttered an oath. "I know who you are
now," he exclaimed. "I recognized you first thing, but couldn't place
you. It's just my luck," he continued bitterly. "If I'd had any idea who
I was going to run against I'd have backed out. But I'll get even with
you some day for queering my game, see if I don't."

"Do your worst," invited Bert. "So long," and he hastened after his
friends, who had gone on slowly during this time. "What did he say?"
inquired Tom, and Bert repeated the substance of the brief exchange of
talk. "But I'm not worrying much over his threats," he finished. "I
imagine he'll be a little more careful in the future."

They then repaired directly to the hotel, where they had supper.
Afterward they went out again to view an elaborate display of fireworks
given under the auspices of the town. Everywhere were hilarious cowboys,
who as soon as they recognized Bert crowded about the party and made
progress difficult. At last they struggled to a point of vantage where
they could see everything going on, and spent an enjoyable evening.

About ten o'clock they returned to the hotel, and after securing their