Anyhow , the attempt must be made , '' said Alan quietly . Suddenly Lynde 's composure forsook her . She wrung her hands . `` I ca n't let you do it , '' she cried wildly . `` You might be drowned -- there 's every risk . You do n't know the force of that backwater . Alan , Alan , do n't think of it . '' She caught his arm in her white wet hands and looked into his face with passionate pleading . Emily , who had said nothing , now spoke harshly . `` Lynde is right , Mr. Douglas . You have no right to risk your life for a stranger . My advice is to go to the village for help , and Lynde and I will make a fire and watch here . That is all that can be expected of you or us . '' Alan paid no heed to Emily . Very tenderly he loosened Lynde 's hold on his arm and looked into her quivering face . `` You know it is my duty , Lynde , '' he said gently . `` If anything can be done for that poor man , I am the only one who can do it . I will come back safe , please God . Be brave , dear . '' Lynde , with a little moan of resignation , turned away .
Old XXXXX looked on with a face of grim disapproval as Alan waded out into the surf that boiled and swirled around him in a mad whirl of foam .
Alan Douglas Emily God Lynde backwater drowned fire right risk