Frank Allen and his motor boat; or, Racing to save a life

Frank Allen is back on the water, this time piloting a sleek little motor boat he’s just received as a gift from his friend Lanky’s father. Together they spend lazy afternoons testing the boat’s engine, swapping jokes, and keeping an eye on a mysterious newcomer named Cunningham, whose motives seem as murky as the river’s deeper currents. When a sudden engine failure forces Frank to improvise with a fresh spark plug, his quick thinking reveals both his mechanical skill and his knack for reading people.

The calm of the Harrapin River soon gives way to a brewing rivalry, as Cunningham challenges the boys to a high‑speed race that could turn into something far more urgent. As Frank and Lanky navigate the winding waterways, they discover that the contest may be tied to a hidden danger threatening someone they care about. The story blends spirited competition, clever problem‑solving, and the earnest camaraderie that has made Frank Allen’s adventures a favorite for young listeners.