“Sure. I know the country hereabouts pretty well, and I may be able to help you in following the course.” “Thank you,” said Frank. “If you can give me any assistance that way I shall try to repay the favor in some manner.” “Oh! that’s all right,” assured the Ashport man. “Every starter must know the course. After that if he can find any means of covering it easier or quicker than the rest, that’s his privilege.” “Well, I reckon some of them will find a few short cuts,” muttered Hodge. “One has already, that’s sure,” said Frank, in a low tone. Bramwell cast a quick glance toward them, having failed to catch their words, although he heard them say something. Merry finished dressing and walked over to the Ashport man. “Who do you consider the best runner in your set, Bramwell?” he inquired. “Why, Prince, of course,” was the prompt answer. “We hope he’ll be able to take the trophy.” “Has Hollingsworth ever told you that you could beat Prince in a cross-country run?” “Well, hardly!” was the laughing answer. “Why should he?” “Because you ought to do it, and I believe you can.” Bramwell looked surprised. “Quit your kidding!” he exclaimed. “I’m going into this thing because I like the sport.” “That’s one good reason why you stand a fine chance to win. You like it. Prince likes the glory, but he does not like the work. I want to tell you something in confidence: Hollingsworth really believes you stand a better show of winning than any other Ashport runner.” Bramwell showed his incredulity, which seemed to turn into resentment in a moment. “Say!” he cried, “do I look soft? What do you take me for? I offered to show you the course in good faith, but if you’re going to give me this sort of hot air——” “If you knew me better,” said Frank, in a convincing manner, “you would not accuse me of dealing in hot air. If we start out together to-day I’m going to tell you a few things that will interest you and may spur you on to victory.” “Why should you do that? You’re out for the trophy, aren’t you?” “I am; still I give you my word of honor, Bramwell, if I do not win I hope most sincerely that you will be the man to do so.” Another person than Frank Merriwell might not have convinced Tom Bramwell that he was sincere in such a statement; but there was about Merry an indefinable something that always bespoke his absolute honesty and convinced the doubter and skeptic. Looking into Frank’s eyes, Bramwell was convinced. “I thank you!” he exclaimed, with a flush of pleasure. “I am sure I don’t know why you feel that way toward me, but I appreciate it.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CHAPTER XXII WATCHING HIS CHANCE. Herbert Hollingsworth was at the clubhouse when the map was suspended on the wall. He saw Merriwell arrive and begin to look the map over with the others.