“Well, that looks like business, lads,” commented Mr. Grant, as he passed behind the line. “There are others still to come ashore. Keep a smart look-out.”
It was easier said than done, so thick was the fog, although the stars were beginning to show overhead through the low-lying bank of salt-laden vapour.
Suddenly, Molly began to bark furiously and struggled so fiercely that Peter placed him on the sand. Instantly she darted towards the water’s edge, and although she retreated when the next breaker swept forward, she followed up the receding wave and continued to bark.
Simultaneously Brandon and Craddock rushed forward. They were within ten feet of each other before they discovered each other’s presence.
“What is it?” asked the Patrol Leader.
“Molly’s spotted something,” replied Peter. “Look! It’s a life-buoy.”
The next wave brought the buoy almost to Craddock’s feet, although he had to go knee-deep into the retiring “undertow” before he could secure it.
The canvas of the life-buoy was ripped in several places, and most of the rope that ought to be attached to it was missing; but painted on it in black letters was the name “S.S. Lumberjack.”
Hurling the life-buoy out of the way of the breaking waves, Brandon was about to resume his post when Craddock shouted to him.