CHAPTER III
THE PATROL LEADER'S DILEMMA
Shivering under the stern canopy of the launch, Scout Atherton assisted the bowman in his work of restoring the half-drowned man to life. Before the craft reached Charing Cross Pier, the policeman was able to announce that there was yet hope.
Feeling dizzy and numbed Atherton stepped ashore.
"Can I help, sir?" he asked.
"You'd better run off home and get out of those wet clothes," replied the coxswain, a sergeant of police. "Do you feel equal to it, or shall we get you a cab?"
"I'm all right, I think," replied Atherton.
"Let's have your name and address," continued the sergeant, pulling out his notebook. "You're a plucky youngster, that you are."
Atherton was not at all keen on giving the particulars. Publicity was the thing he wished to avoid. He had done a good turn, and, Scout-like, he wanted, now that he could render no further assistance, to modestly retire from the scene.
His desire was gratified, for at that moment a doctor, two reporters and an ambulance man came hurrying down the incline leading to the pier. The doctor turned his attention to the still unconscious man, while the Pressmen tackled the sergeant in a most business-like manner.