The Upsidedownians. 147

many boats like their own, and even smaller, then
fewer and fewer, until, at last, only one or two
stately ships were to be seen. Then they met a
big ocean steamer ploughing the water, throwing
the white waves to right and left. When the peo-
ple on board saw the little sail-boat bobbing up
and down on the water, they waved their handker-
chiefs at Uncle Jack and the two children, who
took off their hats in return.
When it was five o’clock, and time to turn
about for home, the wind suddenly died out, and
the unfilled sail flapped uselessly at the mast. It
began to grow dark, too, while just over their
heads they saw a big black cloud, which looked
most threatening. Fearing that a thunder storm
was coming, and realizing their danger, Uncle Jack
sprang to take in sail. But he was already too
late, for the storm was upon them! The cloud
above suddenly burst, a torrent of rain de-
scended, and the wind blew furiously. Bidding
the two children lie down in the bottom of the
boat, and keep perfectly quiet, Uncle Jack worked
frantically with the big sail, and at last succeeded