"How would half a crown be for the hour?"
"I'm afraid I've only got a two-shilling piece with me," said Francis, coming down a little from his high horse.
"And two shillings is the usual price without a boatman," added Piers.
"I'd a deal rather you had a boatman with you, only I can't spare the time. Well, I don't want to be hard on you; we won't quarrel over the sixpence. One of the oars is spliced, and you'll have to be careful of it. Thomas, help to run down the boat, will you?"
With the help of two strong pairs of arms, the Maid of Llangollen went grating along the shingle towards the river. She was short and broad, and evidently not intended for racing. The boys inspected her with a critical eye.
"She's a dreadfully heavy old tub," said Piers, "but she's seaworthy, and I dare say we shall have some fun out of her."
"Who's to row stroke?" said Francis.
"I am, of course," answered Piers, in a tone that admitted of no dispute. "Godfrey may have the other oar, and you can steer."
"And what may we do?" asked Mabel.
"The ornamental, of course! You and Aldred can just sit and enjoy yourselves."