“Yes. He got there April 21, 1908, and he is now on his way back to the United States to break the news.”
“Was the Esquimau able to give you any particulars?” questioned the doctor.
“Some, but not a great many. He says Dr. Cook left Annootok about the middle of February, taking with him eleven natives with their sledges, and over a hundred dogs. The party pushed on steadily day after day, across Ellesmere Land to the Garfield Coast, hunting considerably on the way. From Nansen Sound Dr. Cook made almost a bee-line for the Pole, a distance of about eight degrees, or, roughly speaking, five hundred and fifty miles. On his final dash, he had with him only two Esquimaux, the others being sent back at various times.”
“And where is he now?” questioned Andy.
“He is getting back to civilization as fast as possible, to send word home. If what Estankawak says is true, Dr. Cook has done a wonderful thing—something for which explorers have been striving for ages.”
“Then we won’t be the first at the Pole!” said Chet, ruefully.
“Never mind, Chet, if we get there, we’ll be the first boys at the Pole!” answered Andy, quickly.
“That’s so,” answered Chet, and looked a little relieved.
“Did you ask the Esquimau if he knew anything about Commander Peary’s trip this year?” questioned Dr. Slade.
“Yes. He tells me that Peary is north of us, at Cape Sheridan, and has been there since the middle of last September. He, too, is going to make a dash for the Pole, and may even now be on the way.”