| "Gave him a terrible blow with a hatchet on the head." |
The second ox fell back dead.
"Hurrah! hurrah!" cried Clawbonny.
Hatteras was saved. He owed his life to the man whom he detested most in the world. What was going on in his mind at this time? What emotion was there which he could not master? That is one of the secrets of the heart which defy all analysis.
However that may be, Hatteras advanced to his rival without hesitation, and said to him seriously,—
"You have saved my life, Altamont."
"You saved mine," answered the American. There was a moment's silence. Then Altamont added, "We are now quits, Hatteras!"
"No, Altamont," answered the captain; "when the doctor took you from your icy tomb, I did not know who you were, and you have saved me at the risk of your own life, knowing who I was."
"You are a fellow-being," answered Altamont; "and whatever else he may be, an American is not a coward."