He could cut fancy figures that took away the breath of the village boys, and all his movements were graceful and rhythmical.

He could write his name with his skates, and every letter was perfect and clean cut as if done with a pen.

It was not long before all eyes were centered on him, and Inza did not fail to note that he seemed to be the principal attraction on the pond.
So Inza skated a great deal with Paul, hoping to arouse Frank's jealousy; but, to her overwhelming dismay, after he began to skate with May, Frank seemed to forget there was any one else on the pond.
"I believe he really likes her better than he does me!" thought Inza.
"And she, knowing all my secrets, knowing how much I think of Frank, is doing her best to cut me out! Oh, that is true friendship!" She felt like crying with vexation, and, once or twice, tears did come to her eyes; but she forced them back, continuing to skate and laugh.
Arrangements were made for a skating contest to take place very soon.
One of the gentlemen of the village offered a "badge of honor" to the swiftest skater on the pond--the one who could win the race.
Paul Rains entered, as also did Bartley Hodge and Sammy Smiles from the academy.

Three village boys entered.
Then Hodge sought Frank, saying: "Come, old man, we want you in this race." "Oh, I am busy," laughed Frank, noticing that Inza was near, although he did not glance in her direction.

"I am teaching Miss Blossom to skate, and she is getting on famously." "Well, I think she will excuse you a few minutes.