"If we are going to be fresh water sailors we must learn to do things
for ourselves."

"That's what I say," agreed Jane, nodding with great emphasis. "But are
you sure you are all right?"

"I'm awfully wet, Jane."

"That's nothing. We'll be wet many a time before we get through with
this cruise."

"We shall have to get started first," answered Harriet, chuckling. "Run
along for another boat. I'll try to keep the 'Red Rover' off the shore
while you are gone. Hurry!"

Jane ran toward the landing, still some distance away. There were
several boats tied up there. She helped herself to one and rowed back
with all speed. She espied Harriet out in the lake with the houseboat,
where the latter had succeeded in pushing it and was doing her best to
keep the craft from drifting back to the shore. Jane brought a rope with
her that she had taken from a third boat. This she quickly made fast to
the scow, then began pulling it out into the lake. The wind had died out
and the rowing was found to be much easier, though of course, the "Red
Rover" was as heavy and cumbersome as before.

"We'll make it," cried Jane encouragingly.

It was a full half hour later when Harriet steered the houseboat
alongside the pier. The girls made fast, then threw themselves down on
the dock, utterly exhausted from their efforts.