"We wish to go up to Fern Rock," said Mabel Mallison. "They tell me
there are some beautiful ferns to be gathered there."

"There are," answered Joe. "I saw them last week."

"And I wish to get some nice birch bark if I can," said another of the
ladies.

"I can get you plenty of it."

Joe rowed along in his best style, and while doing so the ladies of the
party asked him numerous questions concerning the lake and vicinity.
When Fern Rock was reached, all went ashore, and our hero pointed out
the ferns he had seen, and dug up such as the others wished to take
along. An hour was spent over the ferns, and in getting some birch bark,
and then they started on the return for the hotel.

"I'd like to row," cried one of the ladies, a rather plump personage.

"Oh, Jennie, I don't think you can!" cried another.

"Of course I can," answered Jennie, and sprang up from her seat to take
the oars.

"Be careful!" came in a warning from Joe, as the boat began to rock.

"Oh, I'm not afraid!" said the plump young lady, and leaned forward to
catch hold of one oar. Just then her foot slipped and she fell on the
gunwale, causing the boat to tip more than ever. As she did this, Mabel
Mallison, who was leaning over the side, gazing down into the clear