“No, we can’t do that. The people are expecting us,” said Brother Van.
“Well, let’s try to cross,” replied his chum.
In they plunged, driving the horses toward the nearest point on the opposite bank. When they were about one third of the distance across the river the buggy began to float and the horses began to swim.
“Van, can you swim?”
“Not a lick!”
“Well, you get up on the seat, take that package and keep it dry,” shouted Dr. Iliff as he jumped out.
He unfastened the horses and they swam to an island in the stream. Then he began to guide the floating buggy toward the bank. In the meantime Brother Van sat still, holding the bundle aloft that it might not be soaked. When they reached the edge of the flood in safety he deposited the bundle on the seat and climbed out into the water to help push the buggy up the steep bank. Valiantly they pushed. The buggy went up slowly and then slid back. Again they boosted and again the slippery banks failed to hold the load.
“Van, you aren’t pushing!”
“Yes, I am!”
“Well, I’m all played out. Now let us try once more. Now all together!”