“But you got nearly through, didn’t you?”
“I suppose so, but I don’t know. It was all one horrible confusion.”
“Yes; but another few yards, I expect, and you would have been safe, and could have pulled me through, or helped me as I swam.”
“Perhaps,” said Aleck, rather slowly, for he felt confused still. “But what are you doing?”
“Peeling off my clothes.”
“What for?” said Aleck, speaking now with more animation.
“To do my turn, and see how I get on.”
“No, no, no!” cried Aleck, excitedly. “You mustn’t try. It’s too horrible.”
“Horrible? Nonsense. It’s only a swim in the dark. I like diving.”
“I tell you it can’t be done, sailor,” cried Aleck, angrily. “The risk is too great. I should have been drowned if you had not hauled me out.”