The Doctor hardly knew how to begin, as Hatteras had declared so vehemently that he would never consent to use a morsel of American wood; yet it was high time he were brought to reason, as June was at hand, the only season for distant expeditions, and they could not start without a ship.
He thought over it a long while, and at last drew the captain aside, and said in the kindest, gentlest way-
"Hatteras, do you believe I'm your friend?"
"Most certainly I do," replied the captain, earnestly; "my best, indeed my only friend."
"And if I give you a piece of advice without your asking, will you consider my motive is perfectly disinterested?"
"Yes, for I know you have never been actuated by self-interest. But what are you driving at?"
"Wait, Hatteras, I have one thing more to ask. Do you look on me as a true-hearted Englishman like yourself, anxious for his country's glory?"
Hatteras looked surprised, but simply said-
"I do."
"You desire to reach the North Pole," the Doctor went on; "and I understand and share your ambition, but to achieve your object you must employ the right means."