He grew suddenly very angry.
"You murderous dog!" he cried.
Rising to his feet he stooped quickly and seized an oar. Before the man in the water could realize his purpose, he had brought the oar down with all his force on the hand that grasped the boat.
With a howl of pain the German released his hold, his fingers shattered by the force of the blow. Without a word the German officer dropped the oar and resumed his seat.
Jack and Harris now approached Frank's side and the former bent over him. Frank was just regaining consciousness. He smiled as Jack asked him how he felt, and asked:
"Did you lick them all?"
"You bet," returned Jack, then turned to Harris. "I suppose we should pick up some of those fellows, if we can. We can't see them drown before our eyes."
"You're too soft hearted for me," declared Harris. "However, whatever you say."
They gazed into the water. There was no German in sight.
"Be ready to jump in the moment a head appears," said Jack.