“Isn’t it almost stealing, Ned?” inquired Zu-zu. “Tom says it isn’t.”
“N-no,” replied Ned, weighing the pros and cons of the matter. “You see, if we find a boat that’s unlocked it’s a pretty sure sign that either it hasn’t an owner, or else the owner doesn’t care if people borrow it. We’re just going across the slough in it.”
Zu-zu accepted the decision as final; Tom and Ned ought to know. She looked on anxiously as Tom examined the various fastenings. What if the trip had to be given up!
Bob sat down near Ned, and whined. He wondered why this fussing and delay. It was only a short swim.
“Hurrah—here’s one that’s only tied,” announced Tom.
“Goodie!” exclaimed Zu-zu, jumping up and down.
Ned heaved a sigh of relief, and Bob pricked up his ears.
“Come on, Zu-zu,” said Ned, descending to the boat, at the bows of which Tom was fumbling.
The boat proved to be the worst of the lot. It was a clumsy-looking, flat-bottomed affair, with square ends, and unpainted.
“What are you going to row with?” asked Zu-zu, stopping short.