Besides, they were almost worn out with travel and constant watching, and, even had there been no obstacles in their way, it would have been impossible for them to sustain a long journey across the country.

It was finally decided to follow the river.

They resolved to run the bridge, and hoped, aided by darkness, to escape discovery.

It was necessary that some one should guide the canoe, and, as Frank perfectly understood its management, he was selected for the purpose.
As soon as the moon had gone down, Frank seated himself in the stern of the canoe, and his companions stretched themselves out under the thwarts, as much out of sight as possible.

As soon as all was ready, he moved their frail craft from the shore, with one silent sweep of the paddle, turning it toward the bridge.
It was a dangerous undertaking; but Frank although perfectly aware of this, and knowing what his fate would be if he was recaptured, had never been more cool and self-possessed in his life.