The ship had been all over the whaling grounds, and had had almost a full supply of oil and whalebone, when the commander, against the wishes of the mate and many of the crew, had decided to turn northward in quest of another whale or two. The captain had acted queerly, as if out of his mind, and had run the ship into a situation among the icebergs from which it was impossible to escape. Many months of anxiety had been passed on the whaler, and the climax had come when the awful squeeze crushed her as if she had been an eggshell. In that calamity the captain and two of the men had lost their lives. After the disaster the mate had taken charge, and the men had transferred their supplies to the shore and gone to living there. They had had more than enough oil to burn, and during the winter had kept a beacon light going, hoping it might bring some one to their assistance. Several had proved themselves good hunters, so they did not suffer for something to eat, although their diet was a limited one. At last the _Evans_ put in an appearance, and lots were drawn as to who should go aboard. Tolney Greene was one of the lucky ones, and the _Evans_ had left, promising to leave word regarding the others at Upernivik and other ports. "Oh, I am so thankful to know that father is alive!" said Chet to Andy. "I am glad, too, Chet," answered his chum. "I hope you meet him as soon as we get back." "So do I. But it's a long sail, Andy!" And Chet heaved a sigh. One day was spent in getting the things aboard the _Ice King_, and then the bow of the steamer was turned southward, and the long trip homeward was begun. It was a slow and tedious journey, with many perils from icebergs and fogs, and during that time Captain Williamson had more trouble with Pep Loggermore. As a result, the sailor was put in irons. At Upernivik he was allowed to go ashore, and that was the last seen of him. "If he has deserted, I am glad of it," said the captain, and Andy and Chet said the same. At Upernivik the Esquimaux were paid off, and Barwell Dawson rewarded Olalola as he had promised. The native shook hands warmly with the boys. "Nice boys," he said. "Olalola wish he had boys like you!" "Take good care of yourself, Olalola," said Andy. "And if you ever visit the States, come and see us," added Chet. "No come to States," said the Esquimau. "Too big sun, fry Olalola like fat!" And this quaint remark made the lads laugh. At Upernivik the _Ice King_ took on a fresh supply of coal, and then without delay continued on her journey southward. Chet had had a long talk with Barwell Dawson, and the explorer had promised to stop at Halifax to learn what had become of the _Evans_ and Mr. Greene. "And I will do all in my power to see that your father gets a square deal," added Mr. Dawson. "Of course, if he is guilty, I can do nothing for him, but if he is innocent, then we'll do what we can to bring the guilty parties to justice."