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268 The firebrand was swung into a larger blaze and the glare cast on the waters. As the rays lit up the weird scene, Tom set up a sudden shout.

"There he is!"

"Where." demanded Sam.

"Over yonder! I just saw him bob up. Quick, Sam, before he goes to the bottom!"

The brothers swam to the spot indicated by Tom with all possible speed, and Tom made a dive under the surface. When he came up again he had hold of Dick's left foot.

"I've go—got him!" he gasped. "Hel—help me!"

For reply Sam ranged up by his brother's side, and between them they raised Dick up and swam with him to the spot where the water was shallow. Then they stood there, in water up to their knees, supporting Dick as best they could. The oldest Rover boy was all but unconscious.

"Going to help us?" yelled Tom, to their enemies.

"What's the matter with him?" asked Tad Sobber.

"Oh, I fancy he was only shamming!" came from Josiah Crabtree. "Come on away."

"Don't you dare to leave us here!" cried Sam.

"Help us out," came from Tom. "It is your duty to do it."