“Yes,” said Phil, “and to do it the way he likes he’s got to go where game is scarce.”
“And that’s in the woods,” said Phœnix.
Phil had had a good many lessons in sailing a boat from his uncle, Mr. Godfrey Berkeley, and all the boys had profited greatly by observing Adam’s method of managing the boat, consequently they felt quite delighted to have the opportunity of doing some sailing for themselves.
Phil went to the helm; Chap took charge of the main-sheet line, and Phœnix made himself generally useful at the main-sail and the jib.
The wind had got around to the east, and this was much in their favor. They pulled up the anchor, hauled up the sails, and set off bravely.
Phil was a careful fellow, and watched for every flaw of wind, and Chap was very prompt to let out the sheet as soon as ordered.
“I want you to understand, Phil,” said Chap, “that as I am captain, I give you orders to let me know every time you want the main-sheet let out.”
“All right, captain,” said Phil. “Discipline must be maintained.”
“Boys,” remarked Phœnix, “I wish we had shot some alligators. We might have done it after we got to the mouth of the creek.”
“Perhaps that’s so,” said Phil; “but I was too anxious to get out from among them to think of anything else. I’d given up the shooting business.”