"And how is it explained?"
"In two ways. Some say that a larger number of asteroids come between the earth and the sun at this time of year, and others that the mere melting of the snow necessarily absorbs a large amount of heat, and accounts for the low temperature. Both theories are plausible enough, but the fact remains whichever we accept, and I ought to have remembered it."
The Doctor was right, for the cold lasted till the end of the month, and put an end to all their hunting expeditions. The old monotonous life in-doors recommenced, and was unmarked by any incident except a serious illness which suddenly attacked Bell. This was violent quinsy, but, under the Doctor's skillful treatment, it was soon cured. Ice was the only remedy he employed, administered in small pieces, and in twenty-four hours Bell was himself again.
During this compulsory leisure, Clawbonny determined to have a talk with the captain on an important subject—the building of a sloop out of the planks of the Porpoise.
The Doctor hardly knew how to begin, as Hatteras had declared so vehemently that he would never consent to use a morsel of American wood; yet it was high time he were brought to reason, as June was at hand, the only season for distant expeditions, and they could not start without a ship.
He thought over it a long while, and at last drew the captain aside, and said, in the kindest, gentlest way:
"Hatteras, do you believe I'm your friend?"
"Most certainly I do," replied the captain, earnestly; "my best, indeed, my only friend."
"And if I give you a piece of advice without your asking, will you consider my motive is perfectly disinterested?"
"Yes, for I know you have never been actuated by self-interest. But what are you driving at?"
"Wait, Hatteras; I have one thing more to ask. Do you look on me as a true-hearted Englishman like yourself, anxious for his country's glory?"
Hatteras looked surprised, but simply said:
"I do."
"You desire to reach the North Pole," the Doctor went on; "and I understand and share your ambition; but to achieve your object you must employ the right means."
