"Probably," said his father, "yet—ah, there's the life boat out now and moving toward the spot."
With that they all ran in the same direction and came up to Mr. Lilburn and Harold just as the boy had resumed his coat and the gentleman concluded his exhortation.
They all saw at once that Eddie had been correct in his conjecture.
"Hallo! where's your drowning man?" he called. "Or, was it a woman?"
"Ask Cousin Ronald," said Harold laughing, "he's best acquainted with the person."
"A hoax was it?" asked Mr. Travilla. "Well, I'm glad things are no worse. Run home my son, and change your clothes; you're quite wet."
"I fear I owe you an apology, sir," said Mr. Lilburn; "but the fact is I'd a great desire to try the mettle of the lads, and I believe they're brave fellows, both, and not lacking in that very useful and commendable quality called presence of mind."
"Thank you, sir," Mr. Travilla said, turning upon his boys a glance of fatherly pride that sent a thrill of joy to their young hearts.