By this time Melick had finished his paper boats.

There were four of them, and they were made of different colors, namely, red, green, yellow, and white.
"I'll put these in the water," said Melick, "and then we can lay our bets on them as we choose.

But first let us see if there is anything that can be taken as a point of arrival.

If there isn't anything, I can pitch out a bit of wood, in any direction which may seem best." Saying this, he went to the side, followed by the others, and all looked out carefully over the water.
"There's a black speck out there," said Oxenden.
"So there is," said Featherstone.

"That'll do.