Side by side with Gerald, Ned made for the spot, and at last swam to the edge of the surf.

Then a great wave came rolling in, and the boys, dizzy and confused, half smothered and choking, were hurled with tremendous force, through the great rocks, into comparatively calm water beyond.

Ned now seized Gerald's hair, for his friend was nearly gone; and, turning aside from the direct line of the entrance, found himself speedily in calm water, behind the line of rocks.

A few minutes' further struggle and the two boys lay on the beach, well-nigh insensible after their great exertions.
After a while they recovered their strength and, with staggering feet, made their way further inland.
"I owe you my life, Ned," Gerald said.

"I never could have struggled ashore; nor, indeed, kept myself up for half that time, had it not been for your aid." "I am glad to have been able to help you," Ned said simply.