Page:Young Hunters of the Lake.djvu/100

90 of a mile," said Whopper, "but we didn't see a blessed thing that looked like the boat. I am afraid it's gone for good."

"If it is we'll have to go home, and that will be the end of this outing," answered Shep.

"Oh, we're going to find that boat!" declared Giant. "But I don't think we'll be able to do much until daybreak."

They followed the shore for a short distance further, and then went back to the temporary camp. It was now half-past three in the morning.

"It will be growing light in another hour," said Whopper. "I move we get breakfast and be ready to start off as soon as we can see."

His suggestion was carried out. Snap's swim had made him cold, and he was glad enough to drink two cups of steaming hot coffee. The boys had brought some doughnuts along, and these, with the coffee and some fried fish, gave them a very appetizing breakfast. They took their time eating, waiting impatiently for the first signs of light in the eastern sky.

At last it was light enough to see almost across the lake, and then they looked in all directions for some sign of the missing rowboat. The craft was not in sight, and once again the party divided, this time Whopper and Snap going to the south and