Consequently, when Riddell arrived at the boat-house in the morning, he was surprised and horrified to find that nearly all Willoughby was awake and down at the river banks to see him.
It was embarrassing certainly, and when presently the crew got into their seats and a start was made, it became evident the new coxswain was anything but at home in his new position.

The boat was a long time getting clear of the landing stage owing to his persistently mistaking in his flurry his right hand for his left, and then when it did get out into mid-stream the same reason prevented him from discovering that the reason why the boat would turn round instead of going straight was because he had his right cord pulled hard the whole time.
This spectacle, as may be imagined, afforded intense gratification to the curious onlookers, and many and hilarious were the shouts which fell on the ears of the unlucky captain.
"Oh, well coxed there!" one voice cried.
"Well steered in a circle!" shouted another.
"Mind you don't knock the bank down," yelled a third.
"Pull your right there!" "Try him without the rudder.

See if he don't steer better that way." In the midst of these uncomplimentary shouts the boat slowly wended its erratic course up the river, amidst crowds of boys on either bank.
"Riddell, old man," said Fairbairn, leaning forward from his place at stroke, "what's the row ?" It only needed a friendly voice to recall the captain to himself.

By an effort he forgot about the crowds and turned a deaf ear to the shouts, and straightening himself, and taking the lines steadily in his hands, looked up quietly at his friend.

Richard was himself again.
"Now then!" cried Fairbairn to his men behind, "row all!" and he led them off with a long steady stroke.
For a little distance the boat travelled well.