simply. "But you know I'm grateful. I would have been drowned if it hadn't been for you."
Joe was embarrassed.
"It was him, really," he said, indicating Frank. "If it hadn't been for him we'd have both been in the rapids by now."
Lester grasped Frank by the hand.
"I have both of you to thank, then. You risked your lives for me."
The old man nodded.
"It was brave work," he said reluctantly. "I'm mighty thankful to you boys for saving the lad. And after this," he said harshly to Lester, "stay away from that mill race. I've told you fifty times that you're liable to get drowned fooling around there. Next time you mightn't be so lucky."
"I'm sorry, Uncle Dock," answered the boy.
The party made their way back toward the mill and the boys were conscious of the sullen glances of the two men who were with "Uncle Dock." It was clear that the pair wished the lads would go away.
"Better take the kid inside and let him dry his clothes," advised Markel roughly, gesturing to Lester. "We'd better get back to work."
Joe's clothes were soaked, but the offer evidently did not include him.
"Have you got a fire in the mill?" he hinted hopefully.
