The Eaglet had already heaved to, and two rowboats manned by the sailors and commanded by the first mate and a boatswain were soon lowered to the water. While this was being done, the boys, led by Phil and Dave, rushed to a third rowboat.
"Now be careful, boys," warned Mr. Lawrence. "Perhaps I had better go with you."
"Just as you say, Dad," answered Phil. "We can take care of ourselves though."
"All right then, I won't go, for you may want the room for those you pick up," answered the shipowner; and a moment later the rowboat was in the water and following the other small craft to the side of the burning vessel.
Seeing those from the Eaglet coming to the rescue, several others leaped overboard, so that those in the rowboats had all they could do to move without hitting any one.
"Save me! Save me! Don't let me drown!" yelled an elderly man, and caught hold of one of the oars.
"All right, we'll save you. Take it easy," returned the first mate of the Eaglet; and soon those in the mate's rowboat had the man on board. In the meantime, the boat in command of the boatswain pulled in a woman and a little boy.
Dave and his chums had their craft headed to where they had made out the forms of a woman and a girl struggling in the water. They soon reached the first of the pair, and after considerable difficulty managed to drag her on board.
"Oh, thank you, thank you!" gasped the woman, as she sank down on the stern seat. "Now save Della! save Della!" she cried, and then suddenly collapsed.
Dave had his eyes on the girl, and was on the point of reaching for her when she suddenly threw up her arms and disappeared.