is diminishing. The rule with us should have been to rely on our sails mainly, reserving the screw for special occasions when the wind was contrary, or there were strong opposing currents; our combustibles ought to be husbanded with the most rigid economy, for who knows where we may be driven, or how long we may be frozen up in these seas? But Hatteras, in his frenzied ambition to push north and reach the inaccessible Pole, never troubles himself about such small matters. Whether the wind is for or against us, he must have all the steam up, and if he goes on much longer in the same fashion, we stand a chance of finding ourselves in a pretty fix some day, and even of our total loss."
"If what you say is true, Shandon, the case is serious," replied Wall.
"Yes, Wall, very serious; not merely for the engine, which would be utterly useless without coal, just perhaps when we most needed it; but for ourselves, too, when we think of having to winter here, which we certainly must do, soon or late One needs to think of cold a little in a country where the quicksilver even freezes in the thermometer."
"But, if I am not mistaken, Shandon, the captain is reckoning on replenishing his stock at Isle Beechey. He can get an abundance of fuel there."
"Can people go just where they choose, Wall, in these seas? Can we ever reckon on finding the straits open? And supposing he should miss the isle, or be unable to get to it, what will become of us?"
"You are right, Shandon. It is certainly imprudent of Captain Hatteras, but why don't you talk to him on the subject."
"No, Wall," said Shandon, with ill-concealed bitterness, "I have made up my mind to be silent. I have no responsibility now; I shall watch the course of events and do whatever I am told without expressing an opinion."
"Let me tell you, Shandon, you are wrong. This is a question of our common interest, and imprudence on the captain's part may cost us all dear."
"And would he listen, Wall, if I were to speak?"
Wall could not reply in the affirmative. He evaded the question by asking whether the representations of the crew would have more effect.
