ten o'clock
With the exception of a little oatmeal the jars were quite empty . About half past seven the Pioneer led the way down stream , proudly shaking the faded pennant to the breeze , and soon the mouth of Indian Cave was far behind . The creek was now barely a foot above its normal level , but this was quite sufficient to make a swift current , and the mile after mile , bend after bend fell behind the flashing paddles of the Jolly Rovers . At ten o'clock they reached the first familiar landmark -- Roop 's Dam -- and the home coming began to seem a reality indeed . The Susquehanna was six miles distant as the crow flies , but almost thrice six by the snaky curvatures of the channel down which they were making their way . Midway on the breast of the dam was lodged a section of the red bridge , and it recalled vividly to the boys the circumstances under which they had last seen it . They found an easy portage for the canoes , and were off again without delay .