The others in their turn were instructed and before noon Uncle Ben had rendered them tolerably proficient in the art of rowing.
When the Bluebird reached Center Island, Tim had just embarked in the Butterfly, and Barney was preparing to do the same in the Zephyr.

The Rovers were utterly confounded at this unexpected invasion of their domain, and hastily retreated from the beach.
William Bright, who was the coxswain of the Bluebird, ran her alongside the Zephyr, and took her in tow.

In like manner they took possession of the Sylph and the "gondola," leaving the Rovers "alone in their glory," with no means of escaping from the island.

With the three boats in tow, they pulled for the beach.
"Now for the Butterfly," said Captain Sedley, as he placed the Sylph in charge of Uncle Ben, and directed William Bright to steer up the lake.
Away dashed the Bluebird.

The excited crew had observed the Butterfly about a mile off, pulling towards the river.