As the sun dropped below the horizon, a ripple was perceived upon the water right ahead.
"Wind at last!" cried Loyola, "and we'll get it first."
Jack and Tari put all their strength into a last spurt, whilst Bill and Broncho hastily stepped the mast and hoisted the lugsail, Loyola taking the helm.
Then darkness, the breeze, and Jack's weird eyesight sprang upon them together.
Gaily the tired rover pulled in his oar and looked eagerly about him; then he bent down, and by the light of the bright stars examined Jim's wound.
"I see you've been in good hands, Jim," he remarked, referring to Loyola's skilful bandaging.
"It's the touch of her fingers makes me feel better," whispered the boy, with a quick blush.
"Same here," declared Jack, with a curious smile. Then a sudden impulse took him, and, stepping aft, he looked deep into the woman's wavering eyes; and there must have been some magic in that one look of Jack's, for a flood of dark crimson crept slowly over Loyola's face.
For one brief second she felt his strong arm round her shoulders and his lips against her lips; then, with the low, whispered words, "Bravest and dearest!" he turned and joined Bill and Broncho, who were sweeping the horizon with the Ocmulgee's glass, searching for the Black Adder.