"But can't you go out in the boat and be near, so you could get to them if the water got too high where they are?" asked Joe eagerly.
Kramer hesitated.
"Oh, do, Mr. Kramer," urged Joe. "We boys will make up a purse and pay you."
"Nonsense, boy! If I do it at all it won't be for money. I tell you a boat would get smashed there very quick. It would go against the rocks in spite of me. I'll get some of those wrecked fellows waked up, and go out. I suppose the youngsters will feel better to see the boat."
"Oh yes," said Joe; "we shall all feel easier."
"It is almost half an hour yet before the tide is high," said the light-keeper meditatively as he looked below again.
"Here, you down there! I'll come around in the boat.--John, you run to the house and wake up a couple of those men. You needn't disturb the captain. I only want two. Fetch 'em along quick down to the boat-landing!"
John was off in a minute, and Joe and Dave ran down to the boat with Kramer, who, now he had made up his mind, seemed inclined to hurry.
The two men from the house soon followed, and the boat was quickly launched.
CHAPTER X.