"That looks pretty dangerous," said Bob, as he saw the canoe dash through a foam-flecked bit of water with sharp rocks on both sides.
"It's a game for small children," replied Mr. Waterman. "In the hands of experts there is really not much danger in this water."
"Is there worse water ahead?" asked Bob.
"Sure thing," said Mr. Waterman. "This was a pretty good one, but you'll know what real fast water is when we have passed through the Devil's Cauldron."
"Some sport," said Pud, as their canoe swung alongside. "I'm trying to do my share, but I have full confidence in Pierre, so why worry."
"You're right," answered Bob.
"That had the Escoumains Rapids beaten hollow," continued Pud.
"Mr. Waterman says that there's some real sport ahead," said Bob.
"Go ahead. I'm game," said Pud.
They went on and they came to a long series of rapids. Down they went at railroad speed. Bob was kept busy doing as directed by Mr. Waterman. Several times they burst right through between rocks when Bob could see nothing but a wall of mist before him. Then at last they came to the famous Devil's Cauldron. Here the river seemed to rise almost between cliffs, and the water boiled up on all sides. They rushed down what was practically a cascade, broken here and there by jagged rocks. Mr. Waterman steered the canoe most skillfully and they emerged at last on the smoother reaches below. Once more they turned around and Bob could hardly believe that he had come through such a swirl of waters in their frail canoe. Just then the other came into view. It was most exciting to watch it dart from wave to wave, shooting now like an arrow and then stopping in its course as if held back by invisible hands. Pierre sat in the stern and wielded the paddle just as calmly and nonchalantly as if they were paddling across a pond. His hand seemed sure, and the canoe came through like a swallow on the wing.