The hand grasped by Tom was limp at first, but it suddenly gripped the other with desperate force, and putting forth all his power, Tom gave a pull which dragged out the half-drowned Jim, and stretched him on his face, where he showed signs of speedily recovering his bewildered senses.
“How did this happen?” asked the puzzled Tom, looking at Dick as he emerged from the water.
“He was about to push my bicycle that you stole into the pond, when he fell in himself; he called out that he couldn’t swim, so I jumped in after him; and now, if you have no objection, I’ll take my wheel home.”
As he spoke he advanced to where the bicycle was lying, stood it up, and moved down the path.
And as for Jim and Tom they spake never a word.
CHAPTER XVIII—AN ACT OF FORGETFULNESS
It would be supposed that common gratitude would have filled the heart of Jim McGovern after his rescue from death by the very lad whom he had sought to injure, but when he returned to the tent, changed his draggled garments, helped himself to strong spirits and began puffing a cigarette, he was angered at seeing the smile on the face of his companion.
“What’s the matter with you?” he growled.
“Nothing, only I think you and I ought to learn how to swim.”
“I don’t see any need of it,” replied Jim, who was in a savage humor.