The river was extremely low at the time, and Sam was confident that by choosing a wide place for their crossing, they could wade the stream easily; but lest there might be a channel too deep for that, he fastened four logs together with grapevines, and putting Judie on this raft bade the two boys tow it over, telling them that if they should find the water too deep for wading at any point, they could easily support themselves by clinging to the logs.

They had no difficulty, however, and were soon on the east bank of the stream.

Sam's task was a much harder one.

The current was very rapid and the bottom too soft for the easy use of his crutch, while his strength was almost gone.

His spirit sustained him, however, and after a while he reached the shore.