An
instant later, however, a wave threw her up from the trough of the
sea into full vision somewhat on his right, and a few strong
strokes brought him to her side.
"Oh, save me!" she gasped.
"Don't cling to me," he said sternly. "Do as I bid you. Strike out
for the shore if you are able; if not, lie on your back and
float."
She did the latter, for now that aid had reached her she
apparently recovered from her panic and was perfectly tractable.
He placed his left hand under her and struck out quietly, aware
that the least excitement causing exhaustion on his part might
cost both of them their lives.
As they approached the shore a rope was thrown to them, and
Ackland, who felt his strength giving way, seized it--desperately.
He passed his arm around his companion with a grasp that almost
made her breathless, and they were dragged half suffocated through
the water until strong hands on either side rushed them through
the breakers.
Miss Van Tyne for a moment or two stood dazed and panting, then
disengaged herself from the rather warm support of the devoted
admirer whom she had tried to play against Ackland, and tried to
walk, but after a few uncertain steps fell senseless on the sand,
thus for the moment drawing to herself the attention of the
increasing throng.
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