"Catch hold of the boathook," replied Ralph, and he reached out with the article as he spoke.
The man grasped the curved iron nervously, and Ralph at once drew him to the side of the sloop.
"Now give me your hand and I will help you up."
And without waiting he caught the man by the right arm.
"Don't! don't! Take the other arm, please! That was broken less than six weeks ago."
"Oh, then give me the left," replied Ralph; and by his aid the man was soon aboard the sloop once more.
He was a fellow not over twenty-five years of age, and his clothing and general appearance indicated that he was well-to-do.
"Phew! But that was a narrow escape!" he ejaculated, as he brushed the water from his face. "I was afraid I was a goner, sure!"
"Couldn't you keep away from the stonework?" questioned Ralph, curiously.
"No. The ropes got twisted into a knot and my right arm hurt so I could only use my left hand. Besides, I am not much of a sailor."