There was so much to be adjusted that first day.

Packs divided in two, new combinations to trim the canoe, or to raise such and such a package above a possible leak.
The heavy things, like axes and pans, had to be fastened to the canoe or to packages that would float in case of an upset.

The canoe itself had to be gummed in one or two places; but they got away after three hours, and began the voyage down the Schroon.
This was Rolf's first water journey.

He had indeed essayed the canoe on the Pipestave Pond, but that was a mere ferry.

This was real travel.