"Strange is no word for it!" Tom asserted. "I'm just all at sea literally as well as figuratively. This is the strangest part of our queer experiences during the past few hours."
"Let's get his clothes off and examine him closely," suggested Arnold. "Maybe the bullet hit him from a ricochet."
"Wise little Scout!" commended Tom. "You've got a great head on those shoulders! I'm glad we brought you along."
Before he had ceased speaking, Tom had begun to divest Jack of his upper clothing. With the assistance of Harry and Arnold, he removed the jacket and shirt in a short time.
"There's nothing here at all!" he cried in amazement.
"What's that bruised looking place over his heart?" asked Harry. "Seems to me it is discolored somewhat there."
"Sure enough!" cried Arnold. "Give him first aid for drowning. That may start his heart action. He isn't shot after all!"
"Hurray!" responded his chums in chorus, quickly putting into action the suggestion of Arnold. They worked quickly and effectively, their training standing them in good stead at this time.
Before many seconds had passed, Jack opened his eyes, gasped weakly and then sat up on the edge of the bunk. Blinking his eyes, he put his hand over his heart. Arnold shouted for pure joy.
"Hurrah, Frank!" he cried up the companion-way, "Jack is coming to! What do you think of us for life-savers?"