`` Go ahead and get ready , I 'll just cut round and ask at the door . It will seem kind , and I must know how Ed is . Wo n't be long ; '' and Jack was off at his best pace . The others were waiting impatiently when he came back with slower steps and a more anxious face . `` How is the old fellow ? '' called Frank from the boat , while Gus stood leaning on an oar in a nautical attitude . `` Pretty sick . Had the doctor . May have a fever . I did n't go in , but Ed sent his love , and wanted to know who beat , '' answered Jack , stepping to his place , glad to rest and cool himself . `` Guess he 'll be all right in a day or two ; '' and Gus pushed off , leaving all care behind . `` Hope he wo n't have typhoid -- that 's no joke , I tell you , '' said Frank , who knew all about it , and did not care to repeat the experience . `` He 's worked too hard . He 's so faithful he does more than his share , and gets tired out . Mother asked him to come down and see us when he has his vacation ; we are going to have high old times fishing and boating . Up or down ? '' asked Jack , as they glided out into the river . Gus looked both ways , and seeing another boat with a glimpse of red in it just going round the bend , answered , with decision , `` Up , of course . Do n't we always pull to the bridge ? '' `` Not when the girls are going down , '' laughed Jack , who had recognized Juliet 's scarlet boating-suit as he glanced over his shoulder .
`` Mind what you are about , and do n't gabble , '' commanded Captain Frank , as the crew bent to their oars and the slender XXXXX cut through the water leaving a long furrow trembling behind .
Frank Hope Pretty attitude boat decision experience others pace share