“No, sir. I’m all wrong, and we shall have to go back. There isn’t a stream runs toward the east anywhere near here.”
“That there is,” cried Joe, “for we found one yesterday.”
“Eh? What? Where?” cried Shaddy, springing up, utterly forgetful of his weariness; and following the two lads, who warned him that the water was of no use for a boat, the fount was reached, and, after a very brief examination, Shaddy cried,—
“There, I’m growing old and worn-out. You two lads found directly what we three men, used to the country, couldn’t see.”
“But this place is of no use!” cried Rob.
“What?”
“There are only a few inches of water.”
“Well, they’ll help carry the boat, won’t they? and the water flows our way.”
“But you can’t get the boat along.”
“Eh? Eight of us, and not get that boat half a mile downhill? Wait a bit, my lad, and you’ll see.”