Final answer:
If the man were pulled out past the old dock, it would depend on the context of the situation. However, based on the given passages, it seems to be referring to a scenario where the man is at risk of drowning.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the first passage, the man is caught in a deadly current but is able to make progress towards the shore when a wave pulls him out. The captain urges him to come back to the boat for safety.
In the second passage, the man is contemplating his potential drowning and expressing frustration with his fate. He becomes aware of a ticking sound, which turns out to be the ticking of his watch.
In the third passage, the correspondent is caught in a current and fears drowning. He sees a man on the shore, but it is unclear whether he will be able to reach safety.