The bunch of willows beside the river which he pointed out proved
to be a pleasant, sheltered spot, with grassy banks sloping down
to the water. A turn in the river enabled them to draw the "Old
Woman" up into their shadows, and because the trees were green
and the boat was green, the reflections in the water were also
green, and for this reason the boat seemed very well hidden from
view.

"I don't believe we shall be noticed here," said Father De Smet.

"It's hot on the boat. It would be nice to take the babies ashore
while we eat," said Mother De Smet, running out the gangplank. "I
believe we'll have supper on the grass. You hurry along and get
the milk and eggs, and I'll cook some onions while you are gone."

Jan and Marie ran over the plank at once, and Mother De Smet soon
followed with the babies. Then, while Marie watched them, she and
Jan brought out the onions and a pan, and soon the air was heavy
with the smell of frying onions. Joseph and Jan slipped the
bridle over Netteke's collar and allowed her to eat the rich
green grass at the river's edge. When Father De Smet returned,
supper was nearly ready. He sniffed appreciatively as he appeared
under the trees.

"Smells good," he said as he held out the milk and eggs toward
his wife.

"Sie haben recht!" (You are right!), said a loud voice right
behind him!