CHAPTER III
A "PEPPER" GHOST
Mrs. Stanhope and Mrs. Laning had been taking a nap, and they were much interested when they awoke and learned of what had occurred.
"Let us be thankful that the raft did not run us down," said Dora's mother, who was a widow.
"It was mean to make us run aground," was Mrs. Laning's comment. "Some folks try their best to get others into trouble."
"That fellow with the long nose got out of sight in a hurry when he saw the shotgun," observed Tom.
"Oh, Tom, you wouldn't have shot him, would you?" cried Nellie.
"I only meant to scare him. But, if they had really run us down, I don't know what I would have done."
It was not long after this that the lumber raft passed entirely out of their sight. Gradually the talk changed, and all began to wonder where they were to tie up for the night.
"I did hope to reach Masterville," said Captain Starr. "But I don't think we can make it."
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