The gruff-voiced man had never ceased his torrent of profanity and threats. They came rumbling across the water as violently as ever. In fact, they increased now that he saw there was a boat by the side of the swimmer and his charge.
“Stop, Marcos!” he bawled. “You’d better, if you know what is to your advantage. We won’t stand any more of this nonsense.”
“Let him talk!” said Nick Carter, in a low tone, to the girl. “Can you get hold of Marcos’ shoulder? That’s right! Catch him by the coat lapel and pull, just as I give him a heave!”
“Oh! We must save him!” panted the girl. “But you, Mr. Carter! What will you do if——”
“Never mind about me. Up with him!”
It was with an almost superhuman effort that the detective managed to get the upper part of Prince Marcos across the gunwale of the launch.
Fortunately, the craft was strong and firm in the water, so that it did not tip much.
“Can you push a little more, Mr. Carter?”
“I’ll try!”
Getting underneath the unconscious Marcos, Nick gave another tremendous heave. Claudia pulled with all her strength at the same moment, and the helpless man lay across the launch. His legs were hanging over the side, but not enough to drag him out.