He then braced himself against the rail and raised the cry for help heard by the others. But the strain on his arm was terrible, and when the shark gave an extra heavy tug, Gus went overboard in a twinkling.
The tension on the rope carried him fully fifteen feet from the steamer. He struck the water with a loud splash, and then disappeared beneath the surface.
“Man overboard!” cried Oliver. “Good heavens! what shall we do?”
“Man the boat!” sang out Captain Morris, who saw at a glance what had taken place. “Quick, boys! Sharks are thick here!”
These last words carried terror to Oliver’s heart. They could bear but one meaning, and that was that poor Gus was in danger of being devoured.
“What can we do?” he asked, appealing to Mr. Whyland.
“Not much. They are getting the boat out as fast as they can. Your friend was very foolish to tie that line fast to his wrist.”
“See! see! the shark is making for him!” cried Oliver in a strained voice. “What can we do? Oh, Mr. Whyland!”
“We can do nothing. Heaven grant they reach the poor boy in time. But—but—I fear not!” And the gentleman turned away to hide his emotion.
Oliver glanced around. It was terrible to be so helpless. He and Gus were the closest of friends. He could never let his chum perish without trying to save him. He ought to do something—he would do something!