They could also make out that Len Spencer was addressing the boys from the raft.
Bang! It was the warning shot.

Spectators along the Gridley shore crowded close to the bank to get a better view.
Bang! At the second shot fourteen boys dived into the water almost in the same second.

Fourteen heads came up, one after another, and the young swimmers settled down to their work.

A launch followed along on each side of the course, to pick up any who needed help.
"It was thoughtful of some one to provide launches for the Central swimmers," leered Martin.
"I hope neither launch will be needed for any of our fellows," Dick responded.

"If either school has to have a fellow picked up, then of course that's the school which loses the race." Hi didn't answer.