intimate friends? I fancy they would do better together in the new boat."
"We'll try it," assented the coach.
The result was an improvement at once. Even with the awkwardness of the new shell as a handicap, Tom and his seven friends at once opened water between their craft and the other one. And it was not surprising when you consider that they had had considerable practice together, and had played baseball and football through several college seasons.
"I think that's the varsity crew all right," declared Mr. Pierson, after watching the test.
"I agree with you—unless something unforseen occurs," said Mr. Lighton. "Now we must give some attention to the others in the fours, singles and doubles."
Practice in these craft had been going steadily on, and in time the crews that were to try to make Randall the champion were picked, subject, of course, to change, a number of substitutes being arranged for.
Word came that the Boxer Hall and Fairvlew varsity crews in the different shells were doing hard work. They had the advantage of not having to pick new and somewhat green crews. But the spirit of Randall was not affected by this.
"Now, boys!" exclaimed Mr. Lighton one afternoon, when the two eights had gone out for
