test the swiftness of their boat, Fred at once turned on more
power and the Black Growler instantly responded.

The boat seemed almost to sink a foot or more into the water as
she plowed her way up the river.

In a brief time the crew of the Varmint II were aware of the
swiftly approaching boat, but instead of entering into the
contest they did not increase their speed. In a few minutes the
Black Growler swiftly passed the Varmint II and as they did so
George said mockingly, "Splendid! Splendid, Fred. All you need is
to have the other boat stand still and you can win out every
time."

"I gave her every chance," retorted Fred.

"May be you did," answered George, "but she didn't think it was
worth while to take up your challenge."

"She didn't dare to," spoke up John, who was loyal to his friend.

"That all may be so," laughed George derisively. There was
nothing he enjoyed more than teasing Fred and as this was a
comparatively easy matter it is not surprising that he frequently
engaged in the task.

Meanwhile the Black Growler swept onward in her course, at last
starting on her return voyage. Not far from the island owned by
Fred's grandfather was another island which the boys already had
been informed had been rented by Mr. Stevens for the summer.