It was a fatal day.
Arrived at the sealing grounds the first catastrophe occurred. It was one never to be forgotten.
A seal was lanced by Sturgeson, very near the edge of the pack. The creature was killed, as the sailor believed.
But as he ventured near it suddenly it turned and attacked him.
Before Sturgeson could get out of the way it had fastened one of its tusks through the calf of his leg.
He was held a prisoner, and the agony was so intense that he shrieked for aid. He was seen by all three of his companions.
“My God!” cried Jack Wallis, with the utmost horror. “Poor Sturgeson is done for!”
“Don’t say that!” cried Captain Hardy, with anguish. “Save him!”
Jerry Mains was the nearest.
Seeing his companion in such deep trouble, he at once started for him. Out over the pack he ran.