CHAPTER XXV 

THE MAN AT POINT VIEW LODGE 

At first it was an even race. Reff Ritter knew how to handle an iceboat to perfection and brought his craft up in the breeze in a manner that won considerable admiration. 

"Take care that he doesn't beat you, Fred," said Pepper. "If he does, he will never get done crowing over you." 

"This race isn't over yet," answered the owner of the _Skimmer_. "Wait till we round the bend yonder." 

When the bend mentioned was gained the _Rosebud_ was a good three lengths in the lead. 

"Good-by!" shouted Coulter. "Here is where we leave you behind!" 

"Your iceboat isn't in it with this," added Mumps. 

"We'll tell them you are coming by-and-by!" came from Ritter. 

"Don't answer them," whispered Jack. "Fred, can we do anything to help the boat along?" 

"Just shift a little more to the left--that's it," was the reply. "Now we'll soon get the breeze and then we'll do better." 

Fred's words proved true. As the _Skimmer_ rounded the bend, a good, stiff blast struck her sails and away she started after the _Rosebud_. 

"Now we are going some!" cried Andy, his face brightening. 

"Make her hum!" cried Pepper. 

Slowly but surely the _Skimmer_ crept up on the _Rosebud_, until the bow of the second craft overlapped the stern of the first. 

"Not walking away so fast now, are you?" questioned Pepper, cheerily. 

"Just wait, we'll beat you, see if we don't!" growled Coulter. 

"Swing the mainsail over!" cried Ritter. 
Who's he chasing?
Reff Ritter 