Nature urges every human being or animal to struggle to the utmost when threatened with death by drowning.

Some boys have even discovered that they could swim when they had to, or go down; though it is a risky experiment which should never be resorted to.
Hugh's heart seemed to be almost in his throat as he watched the struggles of the poor little chap.

Black or white, it made not the least difference to him just then; that child's life was as precious in his mother's sight as if he were the pink and white darling of a wealthy family.
Nearer they came to the scene.

Oh! if only he might manage somehow to retain his grip just twenty seconds longer, they would be on hand, and ready to drag him over the side of the old boat to safety.

Hugh, deep down in his heart prayed that it might be so.