Several times they went under water, the best swimmers among them
getting close to bottom. So they continued on down the stream
for some distance.

"Now, all together. Go under water all at the same time," ordered
Dick.

Below the surface of the river they went. One after another their
heads presently appeared above the surface once more.

"Have you fellows lost anything?" quizzed Reade, suddenly appearing
on the bank.

"That's what I call a mean trick on us!" cried Dave, flushing
slightly.

"You fellows were in for a swim, weren't you?" Reade drawled.
"You have been having it."

With that he took to the water himself. There was something so
jovial and harmless about Reade that, despite their recent anxiety
concerning him, they made no effort to duck him.

"The water is fine this morning," called Tom presently, as they
all swam about.

"Then why didn't you stay in?" demanded Darry rather cuttingly.

"Say, I'm beginning to feel glad that I waited breakfast for the
swim," Reade announced.