“I’ve got him,” cried Grant suddenly as he caught hold of one of Sam’s feet. “Grab the other one, Pop. Quick.”
George grabbed all right, and held on, too. He received a blow over an eye which opened up an ugly cut, but still he hung on desperately.
“Now, pull!” shouted John. “Pull with all your might!”
Both boys exerted themselves to the utmost. They braced themselves and pulled with all the strength that was in them. It was difficult for them even to hang on, however, for Sam struggled desperately and the two boys were thrown all about. Still they retained their hold.
“You’ve got him,” encouraged John. “Hold him.”
Suddenly Sam doubled up his legs, drawing both Grant and George forward, almost on their faces. Then quick as a flash he shot out with both feet, striking the two boys each full in the chest. Their grip was torn loose and they were sent sprawling backward, over the seat onto John, who too was bowled over so that all four boys lay in a heap on the bottom of the boat.
Grant was the first to regain his senses, and a strange sight greeted his eyes. Sam and Petersen were now on their feet, still locked in each other’s arms. Suddenly the Finn wrenched an arm free and drawing back struck the negro a stunning blow squarely between the eyes. Sam’s arms half dropped to his sides and he reeled drunkenly. Then quick as a flash he once more seized his enemy in his embrace and a moment later the two men went overboard.
CHAPTER VIII
A SORRY PLIGHT
There was a great splash. The sturdy life-boat rocked dangerously and then all was still.