"To save him of course!"
Frank plunged into the river and with long, even strokes headed for the spot where the unfortunate oarsman had gone down. By this time the others had succeeded in getting a hold on the overturned shell.
A moment later they seemed aware that one of their number was missing, and after some excited shouts and calls the lad nearest the bow of the shell let go and dived, evidently with the intention of bringing up his comrade.
"He's too far to the left," commented Andy in a low voice. "Frank stands a better chance of getting him."
"I wonder why some of the others don't go after him?" remarked Jack. "What's the matter with them?"
"Maybe they're afraid of getting cramps, too," suggested Ward. "They might take a chance, though."
"There the fellow comes up who dived down," exclaimed Andy. "He couldn't locate him."
"Yes, and there's the fellow who had a cramp!" cried Ward, pointing some distance away from the slowly drifting shell. A body shot into view. A hand and arm were raised in a mute appeal for help, and then the lad went down for the second time. But the current of the river was carrying him toward Frank, who was swimming strongly.
The elder Racer lad had seen the boy rise, and changed his course accordingly. A little later, he, too, disappeared from sight.
"Frank's gone!" gasped Jack.