To Henshaw the walk was a difficult one, and the others had to help him over the trying places. Consequently, when they at last reached the shore it was pitch dark. A cold north wind caused all to shiver.
"It will be no easy job steering back to the Hall in this darkness," said Messmer. "A fellow can't see fifty feet ahead of him."
"Oh, I know the course well enough," answered Henshaw.
The ice-boat was found exactly as they had left it, and soon the craft was shoved out on the lake. Then all got aboard, the sail was hoisted, and off they started for Oak Hall.
"Phew! but it is getting cold!" was Dave's remark, as he buttoned up his overcoat.
"Those men will have a cold walk, wherever they may be going," returned Messmer.
"They said something about the old mill," answered Dave. "I'll tell you the story after I've seen Dr. Clay."
On and on sped the Snowbird with the wind shifting in her favor. It was so cold the tears streamed down the cheeks of all the boys and Roger declared that his ears were about frozen. They tried to look ahead, but could see next to nothing.
"Henshaw, are you sure of your course?" asked Dave, presently.
"I think I am," was the hesitating response. "But it is dark, no two ways about it."