Despite his confident brag, he was now very anxious over the outcome.
Along came the swimmers, all doing well, making a fine showing for a crowd of fourteen boys whose average age was only fourteen years.
From time to time spectators cheered favorite boys in either squad.
"Central wins!" yelled one enthusiast, as the swimmers neared the stakeboat off the pier.
"Don't you believe it," yelled another.

"Wait for the finish." There wasn't long to wait.

As the swimmers came nearer it was seen that Dave Darrin was ahead of all the swimmers, though Tom Reade was pressing him hard.

Behind Tom came Bill Rodgers, then Greg Holmes, next two more North Grammar boys.

Dan was next, with Harry following.