It was difficult to convince the men that the canoes had actually come from Lake Memphremagog by the river, and the boys were made very proud of their success in running rapids which the men declared could only be run in skiffs during a freshet. Without an exception all the men agreed that there were rapids in the St. Francis which were really impassable, and that it would be foolish for the boys to think of descending that river. After making careful inquiries, and convincing themselves that the men were in earnest, the canoeists retired some distance from the crowd and held a council.
"The question is," said Harry, "shall we try the St. Francis after what we have heard? The youngest officer present will give his opinion first. What do you say, Joe?"
"I think I've had rapids and dams enough," replied Joe; "and I'd rather try some river where we can sail. I vote against the St. Francis."
"What do you say, Tom?"
"I'll do anything the rest of you like; but I think we'd better give the St. Francis up."
"Now, Charley, how do you vote?"
"For going down the St. Francis. I don't believe these men know much about the river, or anything about canoes. Let's stick to our original plan."
"There are two votes against the St. Francis, and one for it," said Harry. "I don't want to make a tie, so I'll vote with the majority. Boys, we won't go down the St. Francis, but we'll go to the hotel, stay there over Sunday, and decide where we will cruise next."
"All right," said Joe, going to his canoe, and taking a paddle blade in his hand.
"What in the world are you going to take that paddle to the hotel for?" asked Harry.