“That must be it,” answered Chet, and he, too, began to dress with dispatch.
When the youths reached the deck, a cry of astonishment burst from their lips. It seemed as if during the night the Ice King had entered another world. On all sides were large and small cakes of floating ice, and in the distance half a dozen big icebergs loomed up.
“Looks as if we were getting to the North Pole fast,” remarked Andy, grimly.
“Phew! but it’s cold!” added Chet, as he buttoned his clothing tightly about him.
“Well, boys, how do you like this?” sang out Barwell Dawson, as he noticed them.
“Got into it kind of sudden like, didn’t we?” asked Chet.
“I think so, although the captain said last night to expect it.”
“Shall we have this all the way up now?” asked Andy.
“Hardly. I think, and so does Captain Williamson, that there is clear water beyond.”
The captain was on deck with his glass, scanning the ocean ahead anxiously. Several large icebergs appeared to be drifting directly toward the steamer, and he gave orders that the course be changed slightly.