There came a rush and a roar; they were covered with spray, and the canoe was half filled with water; but the surf had fallen short of them, and they were safe.
Trembling with excitement, and breathless with exertion, they gazed upon each other in silence as the canoe drifted back before the wind to the beach.
“I never will play with this ball again,” said Fred, taking it from the water; “but I will keep it just as long as I live.”
“You ought to, Fred,” said John, “for we have risked our lives to get it.”
Getting the Ball in the Breaker.—[Page 249.]
Indeed, Charles and John had done as boys often do; after giving Fred good advice, and striving to prevent him from a perilous act, they had involved him and themselves in greater danger.
“I think, John, we had better not mention this matter at home; if we do, I’m afraid father will send you and Fred both home, and never let me have another holiday.”
“We must go to the fire; we are wet with perspiration; and if I look as the rest of you do, they will know something is the matter, and question us.”
“If they do, I shall tell the truth.”