The brutes were quick to respond, and galloped swiftly with their drivers skimming by their side, holding them to the task by their continued orders and cracking of whips. They gave no more attention to the passengers than if they were not present.
The latter were delighted, for there was every reason why they should be. Their limbs still ached from the severe exertion through which they had gone, and the sensation of being wrapped about with furs and fixed in a comfortable seat was pleasant of itself. Then to know that they were speeding toward safety—what more could be asked?
The sleigh containing Jack Cosgrove was in the advance; Rob came next, then Fred, while the one loaded only with peltries held its place at the rear.
When the smooth surface was reached, they drew quite near each other, the friends finding themselves almost side by side.
"This is what I call ginooine pleasure," said the sailor, turning his head and addressing the boys.
"Yes, I'm enjoying it," replied Rob.
"So am I," added Fred; "it makes up for what we suffered."
"We'll skim along in this style all day as if we was on the sea in a dead calm; nothing like a capsize—"
At that very moment, the sailor's sleigh went over.