"Come, John, we must bear a hand; there isn't a breath of wind, and it will take us some time to make Rock Island," said Paul, as he rose from the table. "Have you filled the jug with water?"
"No, but I will."
"Here is some gingerbread and cheese for luncheon," added Mrs. Duncan, as she handed Paul a basket she had filled for their use. "Now, be very careful, and don't run any risk. Look out for squalls, and don't carry sail too long."
"I'll be very careful, mother. You may trust me to go round the world," replied Paul.
"But I wish you had a better boat."
"She'll do very well, mother, though I hope to have a better one some time or other."
The jug was filled at the pump, and with their provisions and water the boys set off with light hearts for the work of the day.
Paul felt the responsibility of the trust which Captain Littleton had imposed upon him. He was going to make some money by the operation, and upon this day's success depended the hopes which he had been cherishing in regard to his new scheme.
There are always some drawbacks to disturb the best-laid plans, and when Paul reached the bluff, he discovered the boat adrift at some distance from the shore.