Sea Scouts All: How the "Olivette" was won

by Percy F. Westerman

There were no volunteers. The prospect of falling into the swift-flowing river, even in a mere three feet of water, was not sufficiently tempting.

"I'll get ashore somehow," said Hepburn, who, holding himself responsible for the grounding, was anxious to "make good". "I'll use the boat-hook stave as a leaping-pole."

"How will you get back?" asked Stratton.

"Walk along the tow-path and get on board at the next lock," replied the resourceful Alan.

"Which will be Sonning," decided Mr. Armitage. "We know our way back, but we don't know what's down stream. It's too risky in the dark. Right-o; carry on, Alan."

The Sea Scout sounded with the boat-hook. The bottom was hard, consequently there was no risk of the pole sinking in the mud under his weight.

Hepburn had to make a standing start. There was no chance of a running leap from the deck. Nevertheless he alighted gracefully on the bank, and handed back the boat-hook.

"Too long for a walking-stick," he remarked facetiously. "'Sides, you may need it, Peter, if one of you tumble into the ditch. All ready, sir?"

"Cast off!" ordered Mr. Armitage.

The run back to Sonning Lock was accomplished without incident, and by the time Hepburn rejoined the boat, Mr. Murgatroyd had gone ashore and the evening meal was in course of preparation.