There was a cross-plank which gave the three uncertain footing.

"Oh, look out!" gasped Nan, wavering herself upon the edge of the
plank.

"Hey! We don't want to have to raise the 'man overboard' cry just
yet," grumbled Laura. "Easy there, Nancy!"

Nan whispered in Rhoda's ear: "Walk straight ahead. It isn't hard.
I'll be ready to catch you."

"Out on the plank, sawney!" commanded Amelia from below.

Laura pushed Rhoda ahead. The candidate for initiation, even if she
could see a little from under the bandage, had at best a very
uncertain idea of where she was, or where she was going. Besides,
with one's eyes practically blinded, it is very difficult indeed to
walk a chalk line, even on the floor. And this plank that was far
from steady was only about a foot in width.

"Oh!" ejaculated Rhoda, one foot before the other and her arms
waving for a balance. The parasol did not help much.

"Oh! oh! oh!" was the prolonged wail from the crowd below.

"You--think--you're--so--smart!" Again the Western girl teetered
back and forth. Laura gave her another slight push. Rhoda took one
more step, and let the parasol fall.

"Good!" encouraged Nan.