“Hang to the pup!” called Jule.
But the dog, showing intelligence beyond his years, seemed to realize the insecurity of his perch and sprang for the boat, now advancing swiftly toward the swimmer. The mob on the pier drew up at the very edge of the water and contented itself by showering both boy and dog with a volley of broken bricks and clubs. Case caught the dog as it struck the rim of the boat and drew it inside.
By this time Alex was within reaching distance, and was assisted in, his clothing torn and dripping. Once in the boat, he turned toward his pursuers, placed his thumb on the end of his nose, and swung his four fingers derisively in the air.
“Come on in!” he shouted. “The water’s fine!”
A mixture of blackguard English, Spanish, and Indian, accompanied by another volley of bricks was the only answer. Then, having expressed his indifference to the attacks of the mob, Alex turned his attention to Frank, who was soon drawn out of the water. The dog was the first one on the deck of the Rambler.
“Start her up,” Alex grinned. “There’s more coming.”
CHAPTER IX.—AN ALARM IN THE NIGHT
“Now you’ve gone and got us into another row!” grumbled Case, panting from his long pull at the oars. “You’ve stirred up the whole city, I guess,” he continued, as an addition to the mob on the pier swung around a corner.
“Well, I had to bring the dog, didn’t I?” demanded Alex, with a most annoying smile. “He’s my dog. I’ve named him Captain Joe, for the good old sea captain!”
“It strikes me you’d better get the Rambler out a little farther,” suggested Jule. “Those muckers on shore are getting a boat.”