“He’ll go out this morning,” decided the trainer. “It will give me the opportunity I am looking for. I must not miss it.” After that he pretended to take no interest whatever in Frank’s movements, but he noted that Merry left the clubhouse for the small one adjoining and rightly decided that he had resolved to go over the course at once. A few minutes later he encountered Carl Prince and Clifford Clyde. “Looking for you, Hollingsworth,” said Prince. “We’re going to start out to explore the course.” “Are you?” asked the trainer. “Why, of course!” exclaimed Clyde. “That was understood. You agreed to go with us.” “I believe I did,” admitted the Englishman. “You made us promise to be on hand so you could. Sheldon is here somewhere, and I saw Bramwell not ten minutes ago.” “Unfortunately,” said Hollingsworth, “I can’t start so early in the day.” “How is that?” “I have some important business to which I must give my attention.” “Well, that’s fine!” cried Clyde sarcastically. “Is there anything more important just now than seeing that we are properly prepared for this race?” “I’m going to attend to business in connection with the race.” “What sort of business?” “Business that will be of great benefit to us. Never mind what it is; but I give you my word it cannot be slighted or put off. Do you know if Merriwell is going out this morning?” “Think he’s dressing now,” answered Prince. “If you wait until afternoon,” said Hollingsworth, “I’ll be able to go over the course with you.” “Of course, if you say we are to wait——” “It isn’t necessary. Perhaps you had better go on without me. Remember the instructions I have given you, Clyde. Take the rises as fast as you can without overdoing. Shorten your stride coming down the hills and keep your feet well under you. Don’t overstride if you intend to keep in the race when it’s pulled off. Get the proper gait; make it even and steady, so your heart, lungs, arms, legs, and your whole body move together correctly. You’re inclined to be irregular in your gait. It’s the long, steady pull that counts. Keep pounding away.” “Haven’t you anything to say to me?” asked Prince. “Not a word. You know your book.” Prince looked satisfied. He knew he was generally regarded as the champion runner of the club. He was a fellow who lived on his reputation and past record. Although he pretended modesty, he was as proud as a peacock over his Georgetown days and accomplishments. Clyde and Prince started off to dress. They met Merriwell, Hodge, and Bramwell coming from the dressing rooms. “Hello, Bram!” exclaimed Clyde, in some surprise. “You seem to be in a rush.” “No rush at all,” was the assertion. “Is Hollingsworth going out with us?” “Not this morning.” “Why not? He said——” “I know, but he has business he must look after this forenoon. It’s very important, and he says it will be of benefit to us.” Frank and Bart exchanged glances, but said nothing.