When he saw it he did not know what to do. “I felt like rushing out into the boat at once,” Stephen said, “and catching the thing⁠—but the doctor⁠ ⁠… Margery⁠ ⁠… I had to wait.⁠ ⁠…” he finished vaguely.

“Of course,” said John.

“When he came down he said all was well⁠—or fairly so⁠—and he’d come again this evening. I’m expecting him now.” Then with sudden energy, “I wish to God he’d come.⁠ ⁠… Is that him ?” Stephen stopped and listened. John listened. There was no sound.

“But we mustn’t waste time⁠— half-past eight now⁠—tide turning in a moment.” He leaned forward now, and began to speak with a jerky, almost incoherent haste, telescoping his words.