CHAPTER XVII.
LOSING THE TIME-KEEPER'S COUNT Conners and Brayton were Treadwell's seconds.
Since it is not considered fair to have the referee or time-keeper from either class represented in a fight, Edgerton and Wheeler, of the second class, were referee and time-keeper respectively.
All of the young men were early at the usual fighting ground.

The fall air was cool and crisp, but it was not yet considered cold enough to justify the extra risk of holding a fight in-doors.
Dave was quickly stripped and made ready by his seconds.

His well-developed chest bespoke fine powers in the way of "wind" and endurance.

His smooth, hard, trim muscles stood out distinctly.
Treadwell took more time in getting himself ready for the ring.

When at last, however, the first classman stood bared to the waist, he looked like a giant beside Dave Darrin.
"It looks like a shame to take the money, Tread," murmured referee Edgerton.
"I don't want to pound the youngster hard," explained Midshipman Treadwell, in an undertone.