It was but a few hours after the professor had made the announcement that they had but sixty-eight miles more to cover that the party under Barwell Dawson came to another lead. It was wide and of great depth, as a sounding proved, and how to cross this became the next problem. Even Olalola shook his head.
“There is no end to it,” he said, sadly. “I go with you, but how?”
“We must find a way,” answered the explorer, and he and Chet went out on a tour of discovery.
They came back discouraged, and that night all rested on the edge of the lead, wondering what they should do next. At last Barwell Dawson called the boys and the professor to him.
“I think it best that we make the rest of the journey alone,” said he. “We can take the best of the dogs, and the best sledge, and try to make a quick dash, leaving the others here to await our return. What do you say?”
The boys were willing to do anything, and the professor was of a like turn of mind.
“But how are you going to get over the lead?” asked Andy.
“I’ll find some kind of a way,” answered the explorer.
The matter was explained to Olalola. He was sorry to have them leave him, but promised faithfully to look after the camp, and after Dr. Slade, who was still ill, while they were gone. He said that by following the lead westward, they might be able to cross it.
“I think so myself,” answered Mr. Dawson.