“I deny the allegation, sir, and I defy the alligator!” an old joke but a good one.
“Oh, we’ll get the rowers,” was the confident declaration of many, and then the lads, gathering in the gymnasium, or in the rooms of one and another, talked over the coming rowing contests.
It rained all night, and part of the next day, and then seemed to clear off for good.
“What about another spin on the river?” asked Tom, after his last lecture. “I’m ready for it.”
“So am I,” declared Sid, and the remaining two fell into line. Several other lads agreed to accompany the four inseparables, and soon quite a group was headed for the river.
“Say, look at that; would you!” cried Phil, as they came in sight of the stream. “That’s a flood all right!”
“I should say so!” remarked Tom. “Why, it’s almost up to the doors of the boathouse, and it hasn’t been that high in years!”
“Some water,” agreed Frank. “I wonder if it’s safe to go out? Look at that current!”
“Safe! Of course it’s safe!” exclaimed Phil. “I’ve seen it worse.”