Clutching him by the hair, I dragged him with all my might towards the land, before the returning wave should once more sweep us back into the sea.

By a merciful Providence, a solitary piece of rock was at hand to aid us; and clinging to this we managed to support that terrific rush, and with the next wave stagger on to solid ground.
But what of Charlie?
Leaving my senseless companion, I rushed wildly back to the water's edge, and called, shouted, and even waded back into the merciless surf.

But no answer: no sign.

Who shall describe the anguish of the next half-hour?
I was conscious of lights and voices; I had dim visions of people hurrying; I felt something poured down my throat, and some one was trying to lift me from where I sat.

But no! I would not leave that spot till I knew what had become of Charlie, and in my almost madness I shrieked the boy's name till it sounded even above the roaring waves.
Presently the lights moved all to one spot, and the people near me moved too.