This was, to rig up a mast and sail, and thus obviate the necessity of rowing.
No sooner had this plan suggested itself than he hastened to put it into execution.

His boat was large enough to bear a small mast, so there was no difficulty on that head.

He engaged the village carpenter to effect the desired change.

He did not choose to consult his father on the subject, fearing that he might make some objection either on score of safety or expense, while he had made up his mind to have his own way.
When it was finished, and the boat with its slender mast and white sail floated gently on the quiet bosom of the stream, John's satisfaction was unbounded.
"You've got a pretty boat," said Mr.Plane, the carpenter.

"I suppose you know how to manage it ?" he added inquiringly.
"Yes," answered John carelessly, "I've been in a sailboat before to-day." Mr.Plane's doubts were set at rest by John's confident manner, and he suppressed the caution which he had intended to give him.