yanking us in out of the wet."

So Frank did shout to the cowboy, who, having beached the two boats
below the rapids, was hurrying up the shore. Mr. Mabie, too, had joined
Will, so that presently the entire balance of the little party had
gathered opposite.

Reddy entered into the game with spirit. He seemed to believe that these
tragic occurrences must have just happened to give him a chance to show
his skill in launching his rope.

"Jerry first, please!" called Frank.

"And why? Is it because I'm more valuable, or better-looking?" demanded
Jerry.

"Oh, perhaps I want the pleasure of seeing how you look as you flounder
through the rapids; and then, again, I may pick up a few points as to
how _not_ to do it."

"Tell me about that, will you! Some people have all the nerve!" shouted
Jerry, for the rushing water made so much noise that an ordinary call
could not have been heard.

Nevertheless, he accepted the flying noose that came shooting straight
toward him, placed it under his arms, made sure that his gun was still
fast to his back, and then fearlessly dropped off his perch.

There was considerable floundering on the part of the swimmer, much
straining among the others who manipulated the rope, after which Jerry