One afternoon an event occurred which led to serious consequences for the boys.
The sailors had made a large sled, and a run across the ice fields in quest of a white bear that had been seen prowling in the vicinity, was suggested.
At Jack Marcy’s solicitation and pledge of careful guardianship, the three boys were allowed to join the party.
“Don’t go far,” the captain had said, as the party of twelve left the ship. “All last night I heard distant rumblings, as though the ice was breaking up around us. It comes quick when it starts.”
The party were provided with guns and other weapons, for use in case either bears or seals were found, and started off across the ice, dragging the sled.
When they reached a spot where the larger icebergs prevented the free progress of the sled, the discovery of some bear tracks caused them to separate.
It was arranged that Jack, Hugo and the boys should remain in charge of the sled, while the seven sailors set off in quest of the bear.
Soon, however, the boys grew tired of remaining in one spot, and, while Jack and Hugo were engaged in conversation, set off on a brief exploration on their own account.
Scaling this and that berg and exploring the ice caves and sliding on the smooth plains, they wandered farther than they thought.
“We must return, boys,” said Will with a start, finally. “Why, the sled ain’t in view.”