"Yes. He tells me that Peary is north of us, at Cape Sheridan, and has been there since the middle of last September. He, too, is going to make a dash for the Pole, and may even now be on the way." "Perhaps we'll meet him!" cried Andy. "It is not likely with so many miles of snow and ice between us," answered Barwell Dawson. The news concerning Dr. Cook made the explorer more anxious than ever to be on the way, and one bright Wednesday afternoon it was announced that the expedition would start northward on the following morning. The party was to consist of Mr. Dawson, the professor, Dr. Slade, Mr. Camdal, and the two boys, and eight Esquimaux. The natives were to drive eight of their best sledges drawn by ninety-six dogs. They were to travel northward to Grant Land, and then make a straight dash for the Pole. Captain Williamson and his men were to remain as near them along the coast as the weather would permit, awaiting their return. "And I hope with all my heart that you all come back safe and sound," said the commander of the _Ice King_. "Wish you were going along, Captain," said Andy. "So do I, lad; but my place is by the ship. You'll want the _Ice King_ when you get back." At last came the moment for leaving. All the sledges were packed, and the dogs harnessed and ready for action. At the side of the leading team stood Estankawak, long whip in hand. "All ready!" shouted Barwell Dawson, after a general handshaking. "Good luck to you!" cried Captain Williamson. "Be sure and bring that North Pole back with you!" "Sure--on our shoulders!" answered Andy, gleefully. The explorer motioned to the Esquimau. Crack! went Estankawak's long whip, and off the leading sledge started. The others followed in rapid succession. There was a cheer from those left behind, and an answering cheer from those who were leaving. "It's North Pole or bust!" said Chet, with a curiously dogged look on his face. "North Pole or bust!" answered Andy. "Do not be too sanguine," said Dr. Slade. "Because Dr. Cook has reached that point does not say that we shall be equally successful." "Don't you think we'll get there, Doctor?" asked Chet, quickly. "I hope so, but I am prepared to take what comes. I do not believe that you boys understand the dangers and difficulties of the trip before us. We may not reach the Pole, and we may not even get back alive. Arctic explorations have, in the past, cost many hundreds of lives." "Don't discourage the lads," broke in Professor Jeffer, briskly. "We shall succeed--I know it, I feel it. And when we stand on the apex of the world,--where there is no east, no west, no north, only south--ah, what a glorious prospect!" And he waved his arms enthusiastically. "That's the talk!" shouted Andy. "We'll get there somehow, and don't you forget it!" "It's North Pole or bust!" repeated Chet, "North Pole or bust!" CHAPTER XXIV THE LAST HUNT