"Johnson, I thank you; you did all you could to save my ship, but single-handed you could not resist. Again I thank you, and now let the subject be dropped. Let us unite efforts for our common salvation. There are four of us, four companions, four friends, and all our lives are equally precious. Let each give his opinion on the best course for us to pursue."
"You ask us then, Hatteras," said the Doctor, "we are all devoted to you, and our words come from our hearts. But will you not state you own views first?"
"That would be little use," said Hatteras, sadly; "my opinion might appear interested; let me hear all yours first."
"Captain," said Johnson, "before pronouncing on such an important matter, I wish to ask you a question."
"Ask it, then, Johnson."
"You went out yesterday to ascertain our exact position; well, is the field drifting or stationary?"
"Perfectly stationary. It had not moved since the last reckoning was made. I find we are just where we were before we left, in 80° 15" lat. and 97° 35" long."
"And what distance are we from the nearest sea to the west?"
"About six hundred miles."
"And that sea is--?"