In the meantime Andy and Randy had reached Mr. Stevenson, and with something of an effort they managed to get that gentleman over to the vicinity of the second boat. Ruth’s father was somewhat excited, and this was but natural. He could not swim, and, moreover, he had received a blow in the side which pained him considerably.
“My daughter? Where is my daughter?” he questioned as soon as he had hold of the side of the boat.
“Jack and Fred went after her,” answered Spouter. “There they are, over yonder. Jack is supporting her.”
“Thank heaven then she isn’t drowned!” said Mr. Stevenson, shuddering. “I’d have gone after her myself; but what can a man do if he can’t swim? After this I’ll advocate that every boy and girl be forced to learn to swim,” he added, with emphasis.
“Either that or keep away from the water,” returned Andy grimly.
“Oh, Jack, what a terrible experience!” came from Ruth, when she could regain her breath. “I thought surely I was going down to the bottom of the lake. And how good of you to come to my aid!”
“You don’t suppose I was going to let you drown, Ruth?” he answered quickly.
“I have to thank you too, Fred,” went on the girl.
“Oh, I didn’t do so much,” answered the stout Rover modestly. “It’s mighty lucky we happened to be in this vicinity,” he went on.
“And just to think I was going to surprise you, Jack!” continued Ruth.