Cinder Path Tales

A VIRGINIA JUMPER 151 where I was, wondering what the boy was up to. He came down the path for his jump, with his jaw set, his eyes aflame,his brows black, and with two bright red spots inhis cheeks. One of Dick's faults was that he would not force himself to full speed, an abso­ lute essentialfor a goodbroad jump. In fact, a man who will not or cannot sprint should not be allowed to waste his energies onthis event. This morning was an exception to the rule with Dick, forhe came toward me like a whirlwind, apparently paying no attention to either stride or distance. He fortunately reached the mark all right, caught the joist firm and strong, and launched into the air with his knees high. I cannot describemy sensations as he shot by me, better than to say he seemed to fly. I knew before he landed that the old mark of nineteen-six was gone forever, but when he brol^e ground close to theend of the box, and fell forward, I could not gather my senses for a moment. Dick picked himself up likea flash, his brows still threatening, and coming up to me said hoarsely, " Measurethat, you English blackguard ! " and strode off to his room without even stopping to pick up his sweater. I said nothing at all in answer, forI was