“Take your time, sir—easy now.”
But the Colonel was in too excited a frame of mind to heed this advice, and only Jack’s watchfulness and care prevented a catastrophe.
“Rest your hand on my shoulder, sir,” said the boy. “I’ll steady her—look out!”
For an instant it looked as if the Colonel would upset them both. Advice and suggestions came in a steady stream from the shore.
“Don’t be afraid, sir; if you fall in, we’ll fish you out,” yelled Bates, encouragingly.
“HANG ON TIGHT, SIR”
But Jack’s skilful efforts finally triumphed, and Colonel Ellison was landed safely on shore.
Perhaps never before had so many conflicting emotions surged through his brain. He was conscious that he had cut a very sorry figure before the much despised tutor; and the mirthful chuckles and grinning faces which the moonlight disclosed added to his feelings of wrath and mortification. He owed a debt of gratitude to Jack Lyons, yet he could not force his lips to frame the words which he knew the boy deserved.
While in this very uncomfortable state of mind, there was a crashing among the underbrush some distance off, and the group saw a slim figure dashing madly toward them.