But the ardors of the rapids gave small opportunity
for aesthetic observations.
Curiously enough, after the passage of this last fall the waters did
not subside in speed, though the waves disappeared. The spray of
another fall was to be seen beyond.
"We mustn't risk shooting her without observation," cried Milton.
"Make for that spit of sand with the cedars on it, fellows."
Enoch and Forrester put their backs into their strokes in their
endeavor to guide the Ida to the place indicated, which appeared to be
the one available landing spot. But the current carried them at such
velocity that when within half a dozen feet of the shore it seemed
impossible to stop and make the landing.
"Overboard!" shouted Milton.
All three plunged into the water, clinging to the gunwale. The water
was waist deep. For a few feet boat and men were dragged onward. Then
they found secure foothold on the rocky river bottom and, with huge
effort, beached the Ida. Scarcely was this done, when the Mary hove in
view and with Milton shouting directions, they rushed once more into
the current to help with the landing.
"The cook and the bacon both are in your boat, Harden!" chuckled
Milton, "or you'd be getting no such delicate attentions from the Ida.
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