"Very fast rapide," assented Pierre.
"Can we make them?" asked Pud.
"Can a duck swim?" replied Mr. Waterman, with a merry twinkle in his eye that betokened that he was ready for the fun ahead.
"Are these the rapids you told me of?" asked Bob.
"You bet," said Mr. Waterman. "There are some dangerous spots, but we'll manage them all right."
Once more they carefully packed their bags and the grub. Practically all of the duffle was put into Mr. Waterman's canoe and it was all tied to the thwarts, so that if an upset occurred things would not be lost. Bob went, with Mr. Waterman, while Pud was with Pierre.
"I like this," said Pud, with a frowning glance.
"Never mind. Pierre and you will manage all right," said Mr. Waterman. "You'll find that the paddling will be easy. It is more a matter of steering. We'll hit some water this morning that will make that fast water in the Escoumains look like a mill pond."
"Lead me to it," said Bob. "Come on, Pud! Don't stand there."
They set off, and for some time they paddled along on a smoothly running current. It then began to get faster, and soon they were into the thick of it. Bob and Mr. Waterman went through the first rapids just like ducks. It was most exhilarating sport. They waited at the foot of the descent for the other canoe, and they soon saw it shooting towards them.