how did billy rescues little ann after her accident in chapter 11?

Billy sees that Little Ann has not been able to clear an unfrozen part on the river and has fallen into the icy waters. Billy is too heavy to step onto the ice. Billy prays to God, and the sound of his lantern's wire handle falling and hitting the metal frame interrupts him. Billy gets an idea. He unhooks and straightens the lantern's handle, then attaches it to the end of a cane pole. Wading into the water, he hooks it to Little Ann's collar. He fishes her out, but her muscles are frozen and she cannot move. Billy's legs are frozen, too. Billy manages to get out and he builds a fire. In some time, Little Ann and he are restored to health.