~

BESSIE’S ISLAND. 87

the current was setting very strongly in the
opposite direction to that which he wished to
go. Pat’s advice for getting fo the island was
very good; but for getting from it, the landing-
place by the stake was the worst that could
have been chosen. Tom rowed with all his
might, but found himself, in spite of all his
exertions, going far below the spot he attempt-
ed to reach.

““ Never mind,” said he, courageously ; “when
we come near the banks of the river, we shall
be out of the current, and can row along in
shallow water till we reach the landing-place.

“JT wish I could help you row; it is a very
hard work,” said Bessie.

“Oh, I like it of all things,” replied Tom,
pulling with such vigor at the oars, that the
perspiration rolled in large drops over his face.
They were soon out of the current, and in the
shoal-water by the banks. Tom rowed now
with less exertion.

“ Hulloa! there!” cried a voice from the
bank of the river. Tom and Bessie looked up.
There stood George Cramer and Ada, with