Instead of coming round into the channel, he kept straight on past the lighthouse towards the yacht, until he was something to seaward of her. Then, luffing quickly, he dropped sail, let go the anchor, and unshipped the mast, while Andree got the oars into the rowlocks. It was his idea to dip under the yacht’s stern, but he found himself drifting alongside, and in danger of dashing broadside on her. He got an oar and backed with all his strength towards the stern, the anchor holding well. Then he called to those on board to be ready to jump. Once in line with the Kismet’s counter, he eased off the painter rapidly, and now dropped towards the stern of the wreck.
Gaston was quite cool. He did not now think of the dramatic nature of this meeting, apart from the physical danger. Delia also had recognised him, and guessed who the girl was. Not to respond to Gaston’s call was her first instinct. But then, life was sweet. Besides, she had to think of others. Her father, too, was chiefly concerned for her safety and for his yacht. He had almost determined to get Delia on Gaston’s boat, and himself take the chances with the Kismet; but his sailors dissuaded him, declaring that the chances were against succour.
The only greetings were words of warning and direction from Gaston. Presently there was an opportunity. Gaston called sharply to Delia, and she, standing ready, jumped. He caught her in his arms as she came. The boat swayed as the others leaped, and he held her close meanwhile. Her eyes closed, she shuddered and went white. When he put her down, she covered her face with her hands, trembling. Then, suddenly she came huddling in a heap, and burst into tears.
They slipped the painter, a sailor took Andree’s place at the helm, the oars were got out, and they made over to the channel, grazing the bar once or twice, by reason of the now heavy load.
Warren Gasgoyne and Gaston had not yet spoken in the way of greeting. The former went to Delia now and said a few cheery words, but, from behind her handkerchief, she begged him to leave her alone for a moment.
“Nerves, all nerves, Mr. Belward,” he said, turning towards Gaston. “But, then, it was ticklish-ticklish.”
They did not shake hands. Gaston was looking at Delia, and he did not reply.
Mr. Gasgoyne continued:
“Nasty sea coming on—afraid to try Point du Raz. Of course we didn’t know you were here.”
He looked at Andree curiously. He was struck by the girl’s beauty and force. But how different from Delia!