So sudden had been the appearance of the man that the boys had only time to mount a couple of rungs, and as they heard the skipper’s words, they stepped back.
His training as captain of his school nine had taught Phil to think quickly, and as he beheld the oiler sliding down he exclaimed to his brother:
“Stand on that side of the ladder. Grab his arms when he comes down. I’ll take his legs.”
Startled at the sound of voices below him when he thought every one was above, Swanson turned his head and saw the boys.
Ere he could check himself, however, Phil had seized his legs in a most effectual football tackle, and, though the oiler kicked desperately, the boy managed to hold on.
Unable to reach the fellow’s arms, Ted sprang to his brother’s assistance.
“Pretty work! Good boys! Hang to him!” came from the hatchway, as the captain and his officers beheld the scene below, and almost before the shouts of encouragement had ceased the skipper and his first mate were in the fire room and Swanson was overpowered.
“Take him on deck, Captain?” asked the second mate.
“No. Make him fast to a stanchion and then we’ll get to work again.”
The task was quickly accomplished, and picking up the lights and tools, the men once more started to examine the boiler.