Pinocchio hesitated still another minute.

Then, remembering how his father had often told him that a kind deed is never lost, he swam to Alidoro and, catching hold of his tail, dragged him to the shore.

The poor Dog was so weak he could not stand.

He had swallowed so much salt water that he was swollen like a balloon.

However, Pinocchio, not wishing to trust him too much, threw himself once again into the sea.

As he swam away, he called out: Good-by, Alidoro, good luck and remember me to the family!

Good-by, little Pinocchio, answered the Dog.

A thousand thanks for having saved me from death. You did me a good turn, and, in this world, what is given is always returned. If the chance comes, I shall be there.

Pinocchio went on swimming close to shore.

At last he thought he had reached a safe place.