The two boys soon passed into the land of slumber, and as the
hours drew on no sound arose to waken them; indeed, outside all
was still save the gurgle of the great river near at hand, the
swishing of running water against the sturdy bow of the
shanty-boat, a hoarse cry from some bird that fluttered along the
shore looking for food, possibly a night heron passing over, and
once or twice the hoarse whistle of some steamboat breasting the
current of the mighty Ohio.

And the first night of their eventful cruise passed away, with
everything well when the peep of dawn aroused them from slumber to
a new day.





CHAPTER III.

UNWELCOME VISITOKS.


"Hello, Maurice!"

The call came from Thad, who had been the first to step outdoors
after getting into his clothes.

"What now?" came the muffled answer, for Maurice was pulling a
sweater over his head at the moment.