Summary
Highlights
The narrator, while observing Alex, swims towards the 'toadstool' where Pauline and Otis are playfully wrestling. He feels goofy and questions his intentions, contemplating retreating but is spurred on by Alex's watchful eye.
The narrator reaches the toadstool's base, noting its slimy, mossy stem and wart-like growths. He hangs from it, unnoticed by Pauline and Otis, and considers splashing them, but deems it insufficient.
Noticing Pauline's feet dangling, the narrator impulsively yanks her ankles, expecting a graceful slide but instead causing a loud splash and shriek. He retreats, unseen by Otis, as Pauline curses his name.
As Otis tries to pull Pauline out, the narrator, seeing her legs, grabs them again, engaging in a tug-of-war with Otis, comparing Pauline to a wishbone. He lets go after Pauline screams in pain.
The narrator swims frantically back to the beach, fearing Otis's retaliation. Alex warns him that Pauline and Otis are being swept down the dangerous river, prompting the narrator to run along the bank to help.
Running along the river path, the narrator tells Alex to get help at the Batman's house, while he plans to make for 'Dead Man's Island' downstream, the only potential escape point for Pauline and Otis before the treacherous falls.
Reaching Dead Man's Island, the narrator sees Pauline and Otis are about to miss it. He plunges into the river, struggling against the current, grabbing a branch that ultimately fails him. He eventually makes it to the island's roots, gasping for breath, but finds no trace of Pauline.