It had been hard work rowing against wind and stream.

The oars were clumsy, and it had needed all their efforts to keep the boat's head straight.

Now that they were in the main road, they were somewhat more sheltered.
"Well, Drummond, we have accomplished what seemed to me, in spite of your confidence, well-nigh impossible.

We have got out, we have obtained disguises, and we have eight or nine hours before our escape can be discovered.

I shall believe anything you tell me, in future," Ritzer said.
"Yes," his companion agreed, "I never believed that we should succeed; though, as you had set your heart on it, I did not like to hang back.