There was a spring just opposite, with a log through which the water flowed freely; and when they wanted to fill the tubs, they placed a long wooden spout under the log, and let the water run through.

That was simple enough.

Now Lili thought that if she could arrange the spout, so as to lead the water to the floor of the wash-house, it would soon make a pond, on which the tub-ark would float, all ready for the voyage.

How to get the long spout in place; that was the question.
The children debated for a while whether to ask Battiste or Trine to help them carry out their plan.

Between old Battiste and young Trine, there were very much the same relations as between Schnurri and Philomele.