Flash saw the disfiguring mark and suddenly understood.
Taken completely by surprise he could not hide an expression of horrified amazement. Nor was he able to choke off a low cry: “Povy!”
Rascomb’s face became contorted with rage. Seizing an oar, he swung it with deadly aim.
Flash ducked and jerked up a hand to ward off the blow. Swiftly as he acted, he was not quick enough to entirely deflect it. The oar struck him glancingly on the head.
Momentarily stunned, he staggered sideways, clutching at the boat for support. His weight pulled it over, throwing Rascomb into the water.
Before Flash could struggle to his feet, brutal hands were at his throat. He fought weakly to free himself.
Then he was given a powerful shove out into deep water. The current caught him, pulling him downstream.
Dazed, Flash could not battle against it. He rolled over on his back.
“Doyle!” he tried to shout.
His words came only as a choked gurgle. He slipped beneath the surface, fought up again, and losing interest in the struggle, knew no more.