At Upernivik the Ice King took on a fresh supply of coal, and then without delay continued on her journey southward. Chet had had a long talk with Barwell Dawson, and the explorer had promised to stop at Halifax to learn what had become of the Evans and Mr. Greene.
“And I will do all in my power to see that your father gets a square deal,” added Mr. Dawson. “Of course, if he is guilty, I can do nothing for him, but if he is innocent, then we’ll do what we can to bring the guilty parties to justice.”
“I know he is innocent,” answered Chet, stubbornly.
“I trust that you prove to be right, Chet,” was all the explorer could say.
As the steamer drew southward the weather became milder, until it was a real pleasure to be on deck. The boys discarded their furs, which they hung up as relics of the great trip.
“Looking back, it seems like a dream, doesn’t it?” said Andy.
“A good deal that way,” responded his chum.
“I suppose by this time the whole country is talking about what Dr. Cook and Commander Peary have done.”
“More than likely.”
At last they reached Halifax, and all in a quiver of excitement Chet made inquiries regarding his father. He learned that Mr. Greene had had a chance to ship for Portland, Maine, and had done so, eight days previously.