There were in the snow indubitable traces of men, as fresh as if they had just been made.
"They are Esquimaux," said Hatteras.
"Yes," said the doctor, "there is no doubt of that!"
"You think so?" said Altamont.
"Without any doubt."
"Well, and this mark?" continued Altamont, pointing to another print, which was often repeated.
"That one?"
"Do you think it was made by an Esquimau?"
The doctor examined it carefully, and was stupefied. The print of a European shoe, with nails, sole, and heel, was clearly stamped in the snow. There could be no further doubt; a man, a stranger, had been there.