The steamer plunged away headed for the battleship. But still the ensign and his men worked over the diver. Little by little he regained consciousness. He was too weak to do more than glance about at them slowly, then his eyes closed wearily.
“We’ll save him,” muttered the officer. “We must save him.”
“Catch Davis,” shouted a voice.
A Jackie caught the boy just in time to prevent Dan from going overboard. They hauled him back with a laughing remark. Dan wavered on his feet for a few seconds then plunged heavily forward on his face.
“He’s fainted, sir.”
“Let him alone. We shall be aboard ship in a few moments. He will recover by that time.”
Soon after that the little steamer ran in under the lee of the battleship. The rail was lined with officers and men.
“Anyone lost?” called the executive officer.
“No, sir; got them all. Two men in bad shape. Pass over a sling.”
Sam was kneeling beside his unconscious companion a troubled look on his face.