He made a sudden dash toward the three boys, who stood close to the edge of the dock.
“Stand ready!” spoke Jerry in low tones. “If he tries any of his tricks you two jump to one side and I’ll tackle him. If he gets the best of me, you can jump in and lend a hand.”
Bill, with clenched fists, sprang at the three boys. Bob and Ned moved a little to one side to give Jerry plenty of room. It looked as if there was going to be trouble.
“List to the song of the whip-poor-will. He threw in the river poor old Bill!” came in sing-song tones from the rear. There was a sudden rush. Two figures mingled on the dock. There was a struggle, a smothered exclamation, and then a mighty splash in the water.
“There he goes, over his toes!” cried old Pete Bumps, jumping excitedly about.
Below the dock Bill Berry was struggling in the water. He spluttered and threshed about and then struck out for shore.
“Quite a little swim, while the evening light grows dim,” recited Pete solemnly.
“Good for you, Pete!” cried Ned. “You came in the nick of time!”
“Do you think so?” asked Pete anxiously. “I was afraid I’d be a little late. However I saw he meant business so I sailed in. I couldn’t have him fighting you boys Sunday night, so I just thought a little bath would cool him off. I took hold of him and—.”