"Forward!" repeated the doctor, gazing uneasily at the two captains.
The strength of the travellers soon returned; the dogs had eaten freely of the bear's flesh, and they continued their journey northward. During their walk the doctor tried to draw from Altamont the object of his expedition, but the American gave only evasive answers.
"There are two men to be watched," he whispered to the boatswain.
"Yes," answered Johnson.
"Hatteras never says a word to the American, and the American seems to show very little gratitude. Fortunately I am here."
"Dr. Clawbonny," answered Johnson, "since this Yankee has returned to life, I don't like his face much."
"Either I'm mistaken," answered the doctor, "or he suspects Hatteras's plans."
"Do you think that the stranger has the same plans?"
"Who can tell? The Americans are bold; an American may well try what an Englishman tries!"
"You think that Altamont—"