They worked over the raft the best part of half an hour, and even then the craft did not suit them. But they had done their best and were glad to note that when shoved into the lake the raft floated quite evenly. Then they cut two thick branches for sweeps.
"Now for a life on the ocean wave!" cried Joe. "All aboard for London and Paris!"
"Don't you get funny on that raft!" came warningly from the stout youth. "The first thing you know you'll upset us both."
They had taken off their shoes and stockings and tied them over their shoulders. With trousers rolled up, they shoved off from the island, and the uncertain voyage to the mainland was begun.
"This is a regular Robinson Crusoe way of getting there," was Fred's comment, as they used the sweeps with caution.
"I don't care, if only we do get there, Fred. They meant to keep us from playing that game; we must do all we can to thwart their little trick."
"Well, we are doing it. But this tree branch isn't an oar or a paddle and this raft isn't a naphtha launch."
"I'd like to know what has become of the fellows who took us over to the island."
"Oh, they are back to Lakeport, most likely—that is, if Dan Marcy dares to show himself there. I'll wager Si Voup thinks he has a dead sure thing of the game."
"No doubt of that. And he will certainly have it easier than if we were there. Harry will have to reorganize the whole club."