"I was just going to suggest it," said the skipper of the Dora, and soon they were turning toward shore. A good landing place was found and the houseboat was tied up near several large trees in that vicinity.
Instead of abating, the storm kept increasing in violence. So far, there had been but little thunder and lightning, but now several vivid flashes lit up the sky, and some sharp cracks made the girls jump.
"Oh, I detest a thunder storm," cried Nellie. "I wish it was over."
"So do I," answered Dora. "But I suppose we have got to make the best of it."
"Do not sit so close to an open window," said Mrs. Laning.
"I was going to close the window," came from Mrs. Stanhope. "I never sit with a window open during such a storm as this." And then the window was closed, and also the door.
"I'm going out for some fresh air," said Tom a little later, when the worst of the lightning seemed to be over. "I hate to be cooped up like a chicken in a hen-house." And, getting out his rain-coat, he went on deck, and presently Dick followed him.
"This will make the river swell up," remarked Dick, gazing around curiously. "Gracious, how it pours!"
"The wind is rising. That's a sign it is going to clear up."
"Not always, Tom. I think this storm will last all day, and perhaps to-night, too."