The hunter swam the remaining distance, and, climbing the bank, looked back for the boys.

They were close behind him.

Then he strode across the island, perhaps a quarter of a mile wide.
"We've a long swim here," said Wetzel, waving his hand toward the main channel of the river.

"Good fer it ?" he inquired of Joe, since Jim had not received any injuries during the short captivity and consequently showed more endurance.
"Good for anything," answered Joe, with that coolness Wetzel had been quick to observe in him.
The hunter cast a sharp glance at the lad's haggard face, his bruised temple, and his hair matted with blood.

In that look he read Joe thoroughly.