“He’s winning.” He spoke very quietly.
Tears came to Frank’s eyes, tears of sheer joy. It had been worth the while, that race to Coville! He had helped bring his father back! The doctor listened with his stethoscope, lay it down on the small table at the head of the cot, and again there appeared that sweet, kindly smile.
“You must go now, boy, and get a rest. Come back in the morning, and I’m sure we’ll find him considerably better. He’s safe now, thanks to our getting that stimulant in time,” the doctor spoke in low tones. “Run along now and get a rest.”
“Yes, go home by all means, and get a good sleep,” said Mrs. Allen.
“You’ll need it—after such a run on the river,” added Helen. Then she added impulsively: “Oh, Frank, it was grand of you to get that medicine! I’m so proud of you!”
Frank walked slowly out of the room into the hall and down the long flight of steps to the first floor.
How much better the whole world seemed! How much lighter the load on his shoulders. The doctor said his father would be better in the morning and his mother was here to lift part of the burden from his shoulders.
Reaching the front door, walking out into the night, Frank saw three people running down Main Street, and, just behind, came two more. As he darted under a street light Frank recognized the lean form of Lanky Wallace in the lead.
He had the police! They were on their way to the Rocket! Down the steps he bounded, over the fence of the hospital yard, and before they reached the boat-landing, Frank had caught up with them. Another race was on!