“They was both as near drownded as could be,” said Mr. Smith, looking round; “he ses Arthur fought like a madman to prevent 'imself from being saved.”
“It was nothing, really,” said the mate, in an almost inaudible voice, as he met Miss Smith's admiring gaze.
“Listen to 'im,” said the delighted Mr. Smith; “all brave men are like that. That's wot's made us Englishmen wot we are.”
“I don't suppose he knew who it was he was saving,” said a voice from the door.
“I didn't want to be saved,” said Mr. Heard defiantly.
“Well, you can easy do it again, Arthur,” said the same voice; “the dock won't run away.”
Mr. Heard started and eyed the speaker with same malevolence.
“Tell us all about it,” said Miss Smith, gazing at the mate, with her hands clasped. “Did you see him jump in?”
Mr. Dix shook his head and looked at Mr. Heard for guidance. “N—not exactly,” he stammered; “I was just taking a stroll round the harbor before turning in, when all of a sudden I heard a cry for help—”
“No you didn't,” broke in Mr. Heard, fiercely.