skate part of the way and ride on the ice-boat the remainder of the distance.
"We'll be careful," said Bert.
The day was cold, and clouds overhead seemed to tell that it was going to snow. But the young folks hoped the storm would hold off until night, when they would be safe in the big, old-fashioned farmhouse.
Everyone was well wrapped up, and Flossie and Freddie were almost lost in big rugs that had been tucked around them, for their mother did not want them to get cold.
Piles of rugs and blankets had been put on the ice-boat so those aboard would be comfortable.
"Well, let's start!" called Mr. Bobbsey finally. "We'll see who wIll get there first, Bert, or us."
"All right—a race then!" cried Nan.
Down to the glittering, icy lake went the boys and girls, down to where the ice-boat awaited them. It had been put in good shape for the trip, but before starting Bert and Harry looked over all the ropes to make sure none were frayed, or had been cut. Nothing had
