"What shall we do?" asked Redman, who seemed to regard it as a hopeless case.
"We'll fix him yet."
Some earnest conversation followed these remarks. It was carried on in whispers, and entirely suspended when the Alice approached. The boats were secured, and both crews landed.
"Grant, you have beaten me fairly, and there is my hand," said Nevers, when the two coxswains met on shore.
Richard was utterly confounded by this show of good will on the part of his rival. He took the proffered hand, and gave it a hearty pressure.
"Thank you, Nevers; it is very kind of you to treat me in this handsome manner. I'm sure I don't feel any ill will toward you," replied Richard.
"We will be friends, Grant, and perhaps you will tell me how this thing was done?"
"With the greatest pleasure."
"You have some secret in rowing."
"I will tell you all I know about it, any time you please," said Richard, frankly.