It was indeed the Albatross, or rather the dismantled hull of that ship, which the Arctic castaways had discovered.
Will and Jack both recognized it at a glance, although it was encrusted in ice and covered with snow.
Its presence here gave the lie to Captain Stephen Morris’ story, but it intensified the mystery of his solitary escape.
It was apparent as they approached the ship that it had been deserted for a long time.
They were compelled to remove a large quantity of snow from the deck before they could force a way to the cabin.
Everything here was in disorder—the hold almost empty and the forecastle dismal and badly damaged by a fire that had taken place there.
A few days previous the little party would have been delighted at the discovery of a warm home and the various articles of utility and comfort with which the cabin abounded.
Now, however, Jack was almost positive that research would result in the finding of a native settlement, and through this means a return home.
Will, too, believing his brother Alan alive, was anxious to pursue their journey.
They found a stove in the cabin and plenty of fuel to burn, and they had an abundance of food.