THE SLOOP, “PEGGY”
The sloop, “Peggy,” was becalmed. Anne, Amanda and Amos looked over the smooth stretch of water, but there was not a ripple to be seen. Since sunrise, the boat had not moved. They had made the start at midnight, as they had planned, and had sailed away under a fair wind; but before the sun rose the wind had died away, and the mainsail now swung back and forth and the boat drifted slowly with the current.
None of the children had thought of bringing a jug of fresh water, and the salt fish and corn bread which they had brought along for food made them very thirsty.
“We’re off Barnstable now,” said Amos. “I’ve a mind to let the boat drift in nearer shore and anchor, and then row ashore in the tender and get some water.”
THE BOAT BEGAN TO TIP
“How far is Barnstable from Boston?” asked Anne.
“Miles and miles,” answered Amos. “’Tis only about half-way up the cape from Province Town.”