Two or three of the sailboats would, in fact, be at hand first.
Though there were some excellent swimmer among the wrecked midshipmen, the best of these were already standing by midshipmen who did not swim well.

Dave Darrin was the only one free to go to Page's assistance should he show up.
"Every man keep his eyes peeled for Mr.Page!" shouted Dave.

"We simply can't stand the loss of any member of the crew!" "There's a hat!" cried Dan, a few moments later.

"Can you make it out, sir." Dalzell was pointing further down the bay.
"A cap, yes," called Dave, striking out lustily for the spot.
"But I don't see any head there.

Watch, all of you, and give me a hail if you see Mr.Page's head show up anywhere." Midshipman Farley was in agony over the thought of the loss of his roommate.