The Young Oarsmen of Lakeview

“I’ll race you.” “Done! Are you ready?” “I am.” “Then off we go.” Quicker than it can be related, four oars fell into the water and four sturdy arms bent to the task of sending two beautiful single-shell craft skimming over the smooth surface of the lake. It was a spirited scene, and attracted not a little attention, for both of the contestants were well known. “Go it, Jerry! You can beat him if you try!” “Don’t let him get ahead, Harry. Keep closer to the shore!” “How far is the race to be?” “Up to the big pine tree and back.” “That’s a full mile and more. I’ll bet on Jerry Upton.” “And I’ll bet on Harry Parker. He has more skill than Jerry.” “But Jerry has the muscle.” “There they go, side by side!” And thus the talking and shouting went on along the lake front. Most of the boys present were members of the Lakeview Boat Club, but there were others of the town there, too, as enthusiastic as the rest.