The Rovers found a great bustle and confusion going on at Boyer's depot, due to the fact that a steamer coming down the river from Dawson was due the next morning. It was to be the last vessel to pass that way until Spring.
"Where is that steamer bound for?" asked Dick, of the man who had charge of the depot.
"San Francisco."
"Can we secure passage on her, do you think?"
"I reckon so. Travel is light this time of year. That boat is going to have some trouble getting through the ice, though."
"We'll risk that—if only they will take us on board."
The party was made as comfortable as possible at Boyer's, sharing various bunks in a cabin that chanced to be deserted. Dick settled up with Gus Schmidt, stating he would not go on to Dawson if he could secure passage on the steamer.
At last the vessel came in, and after the general hubub was over Dick inquired about accommodations.
"Pretty full, but I think we can stow you away somewhere," said the purser.
"I don't care what sort of accommodations we have, so long as my brother gets a stateroom," went on Dick. "He isn't very well."