“My word—your strength’s inhuman—” he panted.
“Don’t talk nonsense. Get busy and start the engine. The water’s gaining fast.”
“Confound!” he exclaimed. “I’d no idea the cockpit flooring was awash. Another six inches and it will reach the carburetor.”
While Bill talked he was priming the cylinder. A heave of the crank and the motor started with a roar. Then he flashed his light on the compass and after noting the bearing of the wind, laid the Mary Jane abeam it.
“Take the wheel,” he said to Dorothy. “And steer just as we’re heading now.”
“What about the bailing, Bill?”
“My job. You’ve had enough of it.”
“But I’m not tired—”
“Don’t argue with the skipper!”
“But you’re soaked to the skin!”