On such occasions Fred's passengers at once resumed their task of
informing their captain how small his chances of winning the race
were becoming. Apparently the Varmint had everything her own way.

Fred did his utmost to appear indifferent to the words of his
companions, but in spite of it all it became plain to the other
boys that he was seriously disturbed by the comments they made.

There were times when, the course being clear, the speed of the
Black Growler was increased almost to her maximum. At such times
the farmers in the fields stopped in their labors and stared at
the motor-boat, which almost seemed to be shooting through the
country.

At other times when they were passing through villages or met a
heavily laden canal-boat the Black Growler moved slowly and
seemed to share in the need of caution.

It was late in the afternoon when at last the little party
arrived at Utica.

"We'll go up to the hotel and have our dinner," said Grant. "I do
not know that I owe the rest of you anything, but I'm going to
take pity on you and do what I at first thought I wouldn't. I'm
going to give you a dinner."

"That's very kind," said John, winking at Fred as he spoke.
"Meanwhile who's going to look after our bags?"