"Yes," Jess called back. "But we want help."
"All right, I'll be there in a minute."
The next instant he was into the lake, and headed straight for the island. Jess watched him with the keenest interest, her eyes aglow with admiration.
"Isn't he a great swimmer!" she exclaimed, as she turned to Mrs. Hampton, who was now standing by her side. "I know he would come, didn't you?"
"Yes, if he possibly could," was the reply. "I am so thankful he is here, for he will be able to help us get that poor boy home."
It took John but a few minutes to swim across that narrow portion of the lake, and when his feet at length touched bottom he waded ashore, the water running in streams from his body. But the women thought nothing of his personal appearance, so delighted were they to have him with them.
"Mother! Jess!" he panted. "How did you get here?"
In reply, Mrs. Hampton pointed to the partly-burned boat, and then turned toward the mine.
"Come," she simply said, "I want to show you something."
She led the way, with Jess and John following. The latter could not keep his eyes off the girl's face. He could hardly believe it possible that she was alive, and looking as beautiful as ever, although somewhat pale. He was like a man who had awakened from a horrible dream, and found that it was not true.