“Is that safe?” asked Chub anxiously.
“Sure; two runners are enough any day,” Dick shouted back.
But he eased up on the helm and the boat settled back again, and Chub gave vent to a sigh of relief. Dick looked over and smiled.
“You see,” said Chub apologetically, “I kind of like to keep in touch with things.”
“Watch out for Thurston’s boat,” said Dick. “If we come across her we’ll sort of get a line on our sailing ability maybe.”
“Don’t see anything of her,” answered Chub, “but my eyes are watering so I can’t see much of anything. What’s that over there across the river?” Dick turned to look.
“Coleville,” he answered.
“What!” cried Chub. “Already? Why, we haven’t been going a minute! Talk about your automobiles!”
News of the ice-boat had got out days before, and when the Boreas drew near to the landing at Ferry Hill most of the school was on hand to welcome it. For a first attempt Dick’s handling of the craft as he swung it around and ran it nose into the wind beside the landing was very creditable. Dozens of eager hands aided to hold the boat and numerous voices were raised in petition.
“Let me go with you, Somes?”