"The worst of it is," interrupted Alec, "we don't even know that he's alive. He might have been drowned or——-"
"I won't believe that, Alec! I can't believe it!"
"But you said just now——-"
"I don't know what I said or what I meant!"
"Calm down, Billy, old scout! You're all upset."
"Who wouldn't be, I'd like to know?"
"I don't blame you," said Alec in genuine sympathy. "We all are, you know; but we've got to keep our heads, and we mustn't despair."
"Yes, you're right, Alec."
There was a brief silence, while the two friends stood by the rail watching the low-lying shore slip past them as the Arrow flew onward. Then Billy spoke again, and his voice was steadier.
"We're going to find Hugh and get him out of danger," he said quietly, "so let's get ready to do our level best."