"Here, I'll lift Gus out!" he called, his own teeth chattering not a little. "He ca—can't hel—help hi—himself!"
He lifted the other cadet as high as he could and with a shove sent him rolling on the ice beyond. Andy and Pepper caught Coulter by the feet and immediately dragged him out of harm's way. Then Jack caught hold of the end of the sapling and was hauled up by his chums.
"How in the world did you fall in?" gasped Andy.
"I didn't fall in—I ju—jumped in!"
"Oh, Jack!" came from Pepper. "Talk about nerve! But come, you had better get to shelter as soon as you can."
"Yes, I fe—feel as if I wa—was turning to i—i—ice!" chattered the other.
"The Darwood farmhouse is just over the hill, let us run to that," suggested Andy. "Here, put on my sweater!" and he stripped off the garment in an instant.
"Do—don't leave m—me!" came from Coulter. He was on his knees, being too weak to rise to his feet.
"I'll carry you on my back!" cried Pepper. "Come, take hold."
Coulter was too far gone to aid himself, and Andy had to place him on Pepper's back. Then off the whole party started, Andy holding Jack by the arm and thus giving him some support.