connecting lines uncoiled and laid down from the house to the chamber of the mine, one end of each remaining attached to the electric pile, and the other inserted into the keg of powder. See.
By nine o’clock everything was ready. It was high time, for the bears were furiously engaged in the work of demolition. Johnson was stationed in the powder-magazine, in charge of the cord which held the bait.
“Now,” said Clawbonny to his companions, “load your guns, in case our assailants are not killed. Stand beside Johnson, and the moment the explosion is over rush out.”
"All right,” said Altamont.
"And now we have done all we can to help ourselves. So may Heaven help us!”
Hatteras, ‘Altamont, and Bell repaired to the powder-magazine, while the Doctor remained alone beside the pile. Soon he heard Johnson’s voice in the distance calling out “Ready!”
“All right!” was the reply.
Johnson pulled his rope vigorously, and then rushed to the loophole to. see the effect. The thin shell of ice had given way, and the body of the fox lay among the ruins. The bears were somewhat scared at first, but the next minute had eagerly rushed to seize the booty.
“Fire!” called out Johnson, and at once the electric spark was sent along the lines right into the keg of powder. A formidable explosion ensued ; the house was shaken as if by an earthquake, and the walls cracked asunder. Hatteras, Altamont, and Bell hurried out with the guns, but they might spare their shot, for four of the bears lay dead, and the fifth, half roasted, though alive, was scampering away in terror, as fast as his legs could carry him.
“Hurrah! Three cheers for Clawbonny,” they shouted, and overwhelmed the Doctor with plaudits and thanks.
CHAPTER XIV
AN ARCTIC SPRING
THE prisoners were free, and their joy found vent in the noisiest demonstrations. They employed the rest of the day in repairing the house, which had suffered greatly by
