It was strange to see the banks thus from the middle surface of the water.

All was strange about them; and the delight of the strangeness increased the delight of the motion, and sent the blood through their veins swift as their flight along the frozen rivers.
For many afternoons and into the early nights, Alec and Curly held on the joyful sport, and Annie was for the time left lonely.

But she was neither disconsolate nor idle.

The boat was a sure pledge for them.

To the boat and her they must return.