The smacking of the oars against the surface of the river suddenly seemed as loud as thunder.

"Should I sound the alarm, admiral?" asked Pool.

"Hell no," Gunnar replied.

"Even if we could turn around, they'd run us down all the way to the ocean!" said Ragny. "What'll we-?"

"Shut up," said Gunnar, whispering now. "Get below deck, Ragny. On my mark, I want you to give the order: All oars at full speed."

"Oars at-?"

"Do as I say, sailor," said ...