The boat was strong, shaped well, and had two pairs of oars.
A heavy canvas sheet could be erected as a kind of awning or tent in the rear, in case of rain.

They carried plenty of food, and Jarvis said that in addition they were more than likely to pick up a deer or two on the way.

Both he and Ike carried long-barreled rifles.
The three stepped into the boat.
"Good-bye, Harry," said the colonel, reaching down a strong hand that trembled.
"Good-bye, father," said Harry, returning the clasp with another strong hand that trembled also.
People in that region were not demonstrative.

Family affection was strong, but they were reared on the old, stern Puritan plan, and the handshake and the brief words were all.

Then Jarvis and his silent nephew bent to the oars and the boat shot up the deep channel of the Kentucky.
Harry looked back, and in the dusk saw his father still standing at the edge of the cove.