Then he gave a second look and saw that the dress of the unfortunate one was caught in some sharp rocks. Without hesitation he dived overboard, straight for the bottom.
It was no easy matter to unfasten the garment, which was caught in a crack between two heavy stones. But at the second tug it came free, and a moment later both our hero and Mabel Mallison came to the surface.
“Oh!” cried two of the ladies in the row-boat. “Is she drowned?”
“I trust not,” answered Joe. “Sit still, please, or the boat will surely go over.”
As best he could Joe hoisted Mabel into the craft and then clambered in himself. As he did so the unfortunate girl gave a gasp and opened her eyes.
“Oh!” she murmured.
“You are safe now, Mabel!” said one of her companions.
“And to think it was my fault!” murmured the plump young lady. “I shall never forgive myself as long as I live!”
Mabel Mallison had swallowed some water, but otherwise she was unhurt. But her pretty blue dress was about ruined, and Joe's new suit did not look near as well as it had when he had donned it.
“Let us row for the hotel,” said one of the young ladies. “Are you all right?” she asked of Joe.