op to see. Only I saw that they had to unload, and the
Kablunet helped to mend it. Then I turned and ran. So I am here
first."

There was a huk of approval at this explanation, which was given in a
slightly exulting tone, and with a glance of mild defiance at Arbalik's
mother.

But Issek was not a woman to be put down easily by a simpleton. She at
once returned to the charge.

"No doubt Ippegoo is right," she said, with forced calmness, "but he has
talked of a message to Okiok. I dare say the wife of Okiok would like
to hear what that message is."

"Huk! That is true," said Nuna quickly.

"And," continued Issek, "Ippegoo speaks of the suspicions of Angut.
What does he suspect? We would all like to know that."

"Huk! huk! That is also true," exclaimed every one.

"My son," whispered Kunelik, "silence is the only hope of a fool. Speak
not at all."

Ippegoo was so accustomed to render blind and willing obedience to his
mother that he instantly brought his teeth together with a snap, and
thereafter not one word, good, bad, or indifferent, was to be extracted
from the simple one.

From what he had revealed, however, it was evident that a speedy visit
from the wonderful foreigner was to be looked for. The little party
therefore broke up in much excitement, each member of it going off in
bursting importance to spread the news in her particular circle, with
exaggerations suitable to her special nature and disposition.

While they are thus engaged, we will return to the object of all their
interest.

When Ippegoo fled from Angut, as already told, the latter worthy turned
quickly to Rooney, and said--

"There is danger somewhere--I know not where or what; but I must leave
you. Ermigit will take good care of Ridroonee till I come again."

"Nay, if there is danger anywhere I will share it," returned Rooney,
rising and stretching himself; "I am already twice the man I was with
all this resting and feeding."

The Eskimo looked at the sailor doubtfully for a moment; but when action
was necessary, he was a man of few words. Merely uttering the word
"Come," he went out and harnessed his dog-team in a few minutes. Then,
after wrapping the Kablunet carefully up in furs, he leaped on the
fore-part of the sledge, cracked his whip, and went off at full speed.

"What is the danger that threatens, think you?" asked Rooney; "you must
have some notion about it."

"I know not, but I guess," answered Angut, with a