Marco took his place forward to act as bowman.
It is the duty of the bowman to keep a lookout forward, that the boat does not run into any danger; and also, when the boat comes to land, to step out first and hold it by the painter, that is, the rope which is fastened to the bow, while the others get out.

Marco had a pole, with an iron spike and also an iron hook in the end of it, which he used to _fend off_ with, as they called it, when the boat was in danger of running against any obstacle.

This was called a boat-hook.
"_Attention!_" said Forester, when the boys were all seated.
"_Toss!_" Hereupon the boys raised the oars into the air, ready to let them down into the water.
"_Let fall!_" said Forester.

The oars all fell gently and together into their places.
"_Give way!_" said Forester.
The boat began immediately to glide rapidly over the water, under the impulse which the boys gave it in rowing.

"_Crew at ease_," said Forester.
So the boys went on rowing, but understood that they had liberty to talk.