"Keep it clear for the use of the crews!" "Remember, Prescott," shouted a voice, "nothing but a win!" "That's the Gridley way," Dick called back.
"Crew captains!" shouted the referee.

"Ready to launch your craft! Time for a bit of preliminary practice." "Take hold and launch!" cried Bob Hartwell, running forward.
Over into the water went the Preston High School canoe with a splash.

The Preston boys began to fill their places.
"Gridley, stand by to launch!" called Prescott, "Slide her in, easily!" As graceful as a thing of life the big war canoe slipped into the water, then lay there like a swan.

Dave Darrin took hold of the bow-line, the pretty craft resting lightly against the float.
"Aren't you going to take your men out and warm them up, Prescott ?" asked Referee Tyndall.
"No, sir; only for the last five minutes.

We want only work enough to start the blood to moving well." So only Dave stood by the canoe.