Equally potent charms in the form of a rabbit's foot, and a rusty
horseshoe were tendered Danny by his staunch supporters.
At the big door of the Kennel the boys stopped for a final word. "We
won't make a sound if we should have to pass on the trail," said George.
"We'll be as silent as the dead," an expression recently acquired, and
one which seemed in keeping with these solemn moments. "All the dogs
know our voices, an' if we should speak they might stop just like they
have when we've been exercisin' 'em, an' wanted t' talk things over.
We'll pull the hoods of our parkas over our heads, an' turn our faces
away so's not to attract 'em. Dan, I do want t' win this race awful bad,
'cause o' my father mostly, but you bet I hope you'll come in a close
second."
"Same to you, George," and they made their way to the middle of the
street, where they fell in behind the Big Man and the Peril, and were
flanked by the Woman and "Scotty," Matt and Ben, with most of the others
who had waited for this imposing departure.
The other entries had already arrived at the starting point, where there
was much confusion and zeal in keeping the bewildered dogs in order. It
was a new game, and they did not quite comprehend what was expected of
them.
At last, however, the Timekeeper, and Starter, assisted by various
members of the Kennel Club, had cleared a space into which the first
entry was led with great ceremony. It was Bob, with the cordial, if
ancient, Nero in the lead.
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