“We could chance it and try to push through,” Jerry proposed.
“Ezekiel’s not bluffing,” Mr. Parker replied. “Those first shots were a warning. If we attempt to pass now, he may shoot to kill.”
“There’s one way we might bring help,” Jerry said, staring thoughtfully at the grim figure guarding the channel.
“How?” Penny demanded eagerly.
“You and your father would have to wait on the bank and let me take the boat.”
“Too risky,” Mr. Parker said. “You never could get through.”
“I’d try an old trick,” the reporter explained. “When Ezekiel starts shooting, I’ll upset the boat and float beneath it until I’m past the point. I’m a good swimmer and can hold my breath a long while. Anyway, after the boat is upset, there will be a pocket of air beneath it.”
“It might not work.”
“Let me try it. Unless we get word through, Danny Deevers is certain to escape.”
After lengthy whispered debate, Mr. Parker reluctantly agreed to the plan. Retreating beyond Ezekiel’s range of vision, the boat brought up on shore where Penny and her father alighted.