"Do you know what boat that is?" exclaimed John.

"We ought to know it," said Fred. "That's the Varmint II."

"She beat us down here by a good deal," suggested George, who was
keenly observing the graceful and swift little motor-boat that
was steadily approaching.

"I don't know about that," retorted Fred. "She may be just coming
now."

"Don't you believe it," retorted George. "She has been here a
long time and they're just out testing her on the river. Are you
going to try to race with her here?"

"I am not," retorted Fred promptly. "It will be time enough when
we see what she can do in the real race. That won't be for three
weeks yet."

"How many races do they have down here in the summer?" inquired
John.

"I don't know," answered Fred. "Two, I guess."

"One will be enough this summer, I'm thinking," laughed John.
"What are we going to do with that man?" As he spoke John glanced
again at the uninvited and unwelcome passenger who apparently was
taking his ease on the cushions in the stern of the boat.