"I say, Frank, we are going to row a race with the Norwich Rowing Club. A four-oared race; it comes off the day after to-morrow; and most unfortunately our No. 3 has sprained his wrist and cannot row, and we did not know what to do. We have no other man big enough to take his place who is in condition. We were discussing the matter as you came up. Now, you are a good rower; will you row for us?"
Frank was pleased at the invitation, especially as it was backed up by the others most cordially; but he said—
"I have not rowed for so long a time that I am quite out of condition."
"Oh, nonsense, you look in perfect condition. If you have been out for a week's yachting you must be in capital condition. Do row, or we shall lose the race to a certainty."
"You had better row, Frank," said both Jim and Dick together, but he still hesitated.
"Come, Dick," said Jim, "let us go and birds'-nest in the wood while Frank listens to the voice of the charmer."
So off they went, leaving Frank and the others to settle the question between them.
Behind the inn there rose a steep wood-crowned bank, and it was to this that the two boys directed their steps. On their way they passed a skittle-alley, and Dick said to the man in charge—
"Can you show us any birds' nests?"
"Yes, I can show you one in a very rum place. Look into that old pair of boots hanging against the wall."