“I forbid it!” said Tom, with startling emphasis. “Reverse your stroke. We are going back.”
At the same time he changed the course of the boat as far as he was able by turning the rudder.
James Davenport flushed. He was accustomed to have his own way and he didn’t relish dictation.
“The boat is mine,” said he, doggedly. “We won’t turn back!”
“Turn back instantly, or I’ll throw you overboard,” said Tom, in a determined tone.
“I haven’t got to obey you,” said James angrily.
Tom sprung from his seat, grasped James by the shoulder, and repeated his command. There was something in our hero’s look when he was fairly aroused that showed that he was not to be trifled with. James thought of his encounter the day before, and he was by no means sure that Tom would not carry out his threat.
“Will you do it or not?” demanded Tom.
“If you’re so very anxious, I’ll do it,” said James, backing down. “You make more fuss about the little chap than he deserves.”
“His life is worth as much to him as ours is to us,” said Tom, resuming his seat. “When I have restored him to his home, I will go up or down, as you choose.”