Either they would swing around the curve with force enough to overturn the truck, or, in their fright, they would plunge, boat, wagon and all, into the water. There was not much choice between the two dangers.
“Get ready to jump!” yelled the truckman on his seat.
The boys were in despair. They saw their plans for a fine summer outing partly spoiled, and their fine boat about to be wrecked.
Suddenly, from the bushes that lined the road, there ran out to the middle of the highway, and a little distance ahead of the galloping horses, a small man. At the sight of him Jerry cried:
“Look! It’s the professor!”
“He’d better get out of the way,” said the truckman grimly, in a low voice. “Nothing can stop these animals now, until they wreck everything. Look out!” he yelled to Mr. Snodgrass.
But the little, bald-headed professor did not have any such intention. That was evident. There seemed to be something in the road that he wanted. His net came down with a swoop, and he knelt in the dust.
“Look out!” came in a chorus from the men on the wagon.
Then, for the first time, Professor Snodgrass seemed to be aware of the approaching vehicle, with the boat for a load.