Ben glanced once more at Jock, who could be seen far out on the river, and the sight served to increase his eagerness. “Yes; come on, fellows. If you’ll help me, I’ll try it, anyhow.”
In a moment the canoe was lifted and carried down to the dock. Then Bob held one end of it securely and Bert the other, while Ben cautiously took his seat in the middle. A shout from Jock caused them all to look up, and they could see that he was paddling toward them with all the speed he could summon.
“Perhaps he’s calling for you to come out and meet him,” said Bob, soberly.
“I’ll do it,” said Ben, eagerly, “and then race him for the dock. Push her out, boys!” he added gleefully, as he grasped his paddle.
The canoe shot out from the dock, and the boys stood eagerly watching Ben as he drove his paddle deep into the water.
“Look out there, Ben!” shouted Bob. “Remember, you’ll have to keep your balance.”
“Be careful, Ben! Look to your paddling!” called Bert.
“Don’t tip her so much to one side!”
“Ease up, there! Don’t lean so far over!”
“Sit up! Lean back! Lie down! Tip over!” called Bob, soothingly.