In leaving the boat as related, the stern lay in the water. Even then it would have been secure, but for the agitation caused by the coming gale. That began swaying the rear of the craft, whose support was so smooth that it speedily worked down the incline and floating into the open water instantly worked off beyond reach.
The boys knowing so little what all this meant and what was before them, were disposed to make light of their misfortune.
"By the great horned spoon, but that is bad!" exclaimed Jack, pointing out on the water, where the boat was seen bobbing on the rising waves, fully a hundred yards away, with the distance rapidly increasing.
It seems as if in the few minutes intervening, night had fully descended. The wind had risen to a gale, and, even at that short distance the little craft was fast growing indistinct in the gathering gloom.
"It isn't very pleasant," replied Rob, "but it might be worse."
"I should like to know how it could be worse," said the sailor, turning reprovingly toward him; "I wonder if I can do it."
The last words were uttered to himself, and he hastily laid down his gun on the ice by his side. Then he began taking off his outer coat.
"What do you mean to do?" asked the amazed Fred.
"I believe I can swim out to the boat and bring it back," was the reply, as he continued preparations.
"You musn't think of such a thing," protested Rob; "the water is cold enough to freeze you to death. If you can't reach it, you will have to come back to us, with your clothing frozen stiff, and nothing will save you from perishing."