But Bruce could not be quieted—not even after Topsail's boot had caught him in the side and brought a sharp howl of pain. Still he sniffed to windward and barked.
"Throw him over," said Bill Watt. "We'll not be able t' hear Bobby."
"Oh, if 'twas only light!" Eli groaned, not heeding Watt.
But it was dark. The water was covered with deepest shadow. Only the breakers and the black outline of Iron Head could be seen. Bobby might be swimming near at hand but too far off to send an audible shout for help.
"Bobby—oh—Bobby!"
If a cry in answer had gone up, the barking of the dog drowned it. The dog must be quieted.
"Push the brute over!" said Watt.
Watt himself dropped his oar and stepped to the stern. He took Bruce unaware and tumbled him into the water. The old dog made no protest. He whined eagerly and swam out from the boat—a straight course astern.
"Now, what did he do that for?" mused Watt.