But just that little fraction was what was needed. The Gem went ahead
almost by inches only, but it was enough. The Eagle's crew of three
girls tried in vain to coax another revolution out of her propeller,
but it was not to be, and the Gem shot over the line a winner. A
winner, but by so narrow a margin that the judges conferred a moment
before making the announcement. But they finally made it. The Gem had
undoubtedly won.
"Oh!" exclaimed Grace as she climbed out into the cabin, and thence to
the deck, followed by Amy. "Oh, my hand is numb holding the ends of
that wire together. I didn't dare let go---- "
"It was brave of you!" exclaimed Betty, patting Grace on the shoulder.
"If you had let go we would have lost. We'll bathe your hand for you
in witch hazel."
"Oh, it is only cramped. It will be all right in a little while."
"What a din they are making!" cried Amy, covering her ears with her
hands.
"They are saluting the winner," said Mollie, as she noted the tooting
of many boat whistles. Betty slowed down her boat, and saluted as she
swept past the boat of the judges.
"Well, I'm glad it's over," sighed Grace.
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