This shout was echoed lustily by his companions.
"So this is the Nimrod Club," commented Bob. "They certainly seem to be enjoying themselves."
Of this there could be no doubt. The exuberance of Nat and his chums, judging from their language and actions, was on the point of overflowing.
The rival boat, headed toward them, its graceful lines sparkling where the water had splashed upon it, was soon close at hand.
Suddenly, the chug-chug ceased, and the "Nimrod" glided gracefully across the bow of the "Rambler."
"The Nimrod Club of Kingswood greets the Ramblers!" shouted Nat, with unnecessary force; and he bowed mockingly. His brown eyes danced with excitement and triumph.
"And the Rambler Club salutes the Nimrods!" laughed Bob, although he was not a little apprehensive that the arrival of Nat and his followers boded them no good.
"Do you want a tow-line?" spoke up their leader.
"Say, is your old tub fast enough for you to know which way it's going?" added John Hackett.
The Nimrods all thought this very funny, and laughed uproariously.