The two little girl companions of the rescued child, whose admiration for his boldness had undoubtedly been the main cause for his taking such great risks, stopped screaming when they saw that he was safe in the boat.
The boys now made for the shore, as the boat was taking in water very fast, and already their feet were soaking wet.

Besides, the sooner they reached land the better, because the boy had fainted from excess of fright, and also on account of the desperate endeavor he had made to keep from sinking.
A minute later and Hugh lifted him from the boat.
"We've got to get a fire started right away, Thad!" he exclaimed.

"The air isn't as warm as it might be, and he'll be shivering soon.
Besides, it's a long walk to town.

Later on perhaps we may be able to stop some car or vehicle going in on the road, and take them all home.
Here's my match-safe, so speed up a blaze, please." It was fortunate that Hugh always made it a practice to have matches with him.

There could be no telling when they might come in very handy, as on the present occasion; for there was no house near by at which they could seek assistance.
Thad was always a good hand at making a fire, and he quickly found plenty of fine tinder which flashed up when a match was applied.