The company, meanwhile, though much regretting the parting with their new found friends, yet were exhilarated with the idea that they were again rapidly rushing toward the object of their expedition. Their supplies of food, fuel, clothing, etc., had been fully replenished so far as was necessary, and nothing should now prevent their reaching the Pole at an exceedingly early date. This they were the more anxious to do, as the season was getting well advanced, and they desired to be out of the Arctic region before winter should set in. This was not a matter of so much concern to them, however, as it had been to all previous explorers of these frigid regions. The navigators of Silver Cloud had no frozen seas nor icebergs to contend with, and could soar above all clouds and storms. And the matter of temperature was of little consequence to them; for, as Will had said, the cabin was so constructed that frost could never penetrate its beautiful aluminum walls. So they were jubilant and happy. Even Sing--whom, by the way, we have shamefully neglected during the past three months--joined in the general hilarity, and treated them to many Russian dishes that he had picked up in the kitchen of the castle, where he had spent his time during their stay there. The wind continued all day from the south, so that by evening they sighted the city of Archangel away to their left. All night they sped at express train speed toward their destination. When they looked out in the morning from the balcony, the northern coast of Russia was indistinctly seen in the southern horizon, and they were again floating over the floes and bergs of Arctic seas. "We have crossed the 70th degree of latitude," said the Professor at breakfast. "We are heading directly for Franz Joseph Land. We should sight that island by noon at our present rate of speed." All expressed themselves as delighted at the marvelous performance of Silver Cloud, and Denison declared that he should never be contented to settle down to slow going terrestrial life again. "I move that we set out for the South Pole as soon as we get back to Washington," said he. "I second the motion!" cried Mattie. "I don't know whether women have the elective franchise in this country or not," laughingly replied Dr. Jones. "At all events, let's get back to Washington before we plan any more expeditions. I do not doubt that the South Pole will be our next objective point." "Just imagine the American flag flying at the two poles of the earth!" cried Professor Gray. "What could be more appropriate and grander! I believe Denison's motion to be strictly in order. As to Mattie's second, I am for female suffrage, here and everywhere upon earth. Without it woman is but a slave, and can be but what her lord and master, man, permits her to be." "Hear! hear!" cried the ladies, clapping their hands. "What an old Bluebeard of a husband you have, haven't you?" said the Doctor to Mrs. Jones.