"Behind the icebergs watching us," replied the Doctor. "Don't let us expose ourselves imprudently."
"What about going hunting, then?" asked Altamont.
"We must put it off for a day or two, I think, and rub out the marks again, and see if they are renewed to-morrow."
The Doctor's advice was followed, and they entrenched themselves for the present in the fort. The lighthouse was taken down, as it was not of actual use meantime, and might help to attract the bears. Each took it in turn to keep watch on the upper plateau.
The day passed without a sign of the enemy's existence, and next morning, when they hurried eagerly out to examine the snow, judge their astonishment to find it wholly untouched!
"Capital!" exclaimed Altamont. "The bears are put off the scent; they have no perseverance, and have grown tired waiting for us. They are off, and a good riddance. Now let us start for a day's hunting."
"Softly, softly," said the Doctor; "I'm not so sure they have gone. I think we had better wait one day more. It is evident the bears have not been here last night, at least on this side; but still-"
"Well, let us go right round the plateau, and see how things stand," said the impatient Altamont.
"All right," said Clawbonny. "Come along."
Away they went, but it was impossible to scrutinize carefully a track of two miles, and no trace of the enemy was discoverable.