There was nothing that could be done to check the conflagration. In fact, as the boys learned later, the town was without fire protection, save a volunteer company, with a hand engine, and this was, of course, useless in the flood.
Proceeding to a house at a point below which the small boats were engaged in rescue work, those aboard the Clytie saved a number of women and children. These were taken to a place of safety, and another trip back made.
“There goes the last house!” cried Blake, as the final one in the row caught.
“Yes, and there’s a woman signaling to us!” added Joe.
“Two of ’em!” yelled Mr. Piper, as he caught sight of two forms at a third-story window. This house was all aflame on one side, from the water’s edge to the roof, but it had not yet kindled on the side where the women appeared. They had made their way to the top floor, perhaps on account of fire being below them.
“Jump!” yelled Blake, as he put aside his camera, for the reel of film had run out, and he did not want to stop to thread in more.
“Yes, jump!” added Mr. Ringold. “We’ll save you—it’s your only chance!”
“I’m coming!” answered one woman, and she made a dive into some deep water an instant later, evidently being an accomplished swimmer. She came up near the motor boat, and was promptly taken in.
“Come on!” cried Mr. Ringold to the other woman.
She hesitated, and drew back, evidently being in great fear, and she seemed to be saying something, for her lips could be seen to move.