"Can he swim?" queried Harrison anxiously coming up the companion-way.
"If he can't, he'll be in a bad way in this mess!"
"They both are Boy Scouts with medals showing proficiency in the art!"
declared Harry. "We can all swim," he continued.
"Hurrah, then it won't be so bad! I'm hoping the explosion hasn't
stunned the boys," cried Harrison hopefully.
"There they are," shouted Frank. "Can you see them?"
"I see them," Jack answered, throwing the ring buoy with true aim.
"Stand by to help them aboard. Charley needs help!"
Dashing the water from his face, Tom seized the ring buoy and with its
assistance supported Charley's face free of the surface until drawn to
the side of the Fortuna and relieved of his burden.
First aid methods were speedily applied. Charley was placed face down
upon the deck, where the boys took turns applying the means of
resuscitation known as the Shaefer method. Harrison stood by in wonder
observing every move. At length he became discouraged.
"I'm afraid, boys, it's no go," he said. "He doesn't seem to be coming
around at all. The explosion must have hit him hard."
"He may be a long time coming, but we're going to keep at it in relays
until we're all exhausted. He gave himself for us and we're prepared to
do the same for him. He's done his good turn today."
"You're right, boys; he certainly has," declared Harrison. "Now, I'm
bigger than you lads and if you'll show me how to do the work, I'll
help. Maybe I could squeeze more water out of him than you.
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