The explorer motioned to the Esquimau. Crack! went Estankawak’s long whip, and off the leading sledge started. The others followed in rapid succession. There was a cheer from those left behind, and an answering cheer from those who were leaving.
“It’s North Pole or bust!” said Chet, with a curiously dogged look on his face.
“North Pole or bust!” answered Andy.
“Do not be too sanguine,” said Dr. Slade. “Because Dr. Cook has reached that point does not say that we shall be equally successful.”
“Don’t you think we’ll get there, Doctor?” asked Chet, quickly.
“I hope so, but I am prepared to take what comes. I do not believe that you boys understand the dangers and difficulties of the trip before us. We may not reach the Pole, and we may not even get back alive. Arctic explorations have, in the past, cost many hundreds of lives.”
“Don’t discourage the lads,” broke in Professor Jeffer, briskly. “We shall succeed—I know it, I feel it. And when we stand on the apex of the world,—where there is no east, no west, no north, only south—ah, what a glorious prospect!” And he waved his arms enthusiastically.
“That’s the talk!” shouted Andy. “We’ll get there somehow, and don’t you forget it!”
“It’s North Pole or bust!” repeated Chet, “North Pole or bust!”