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148 the beauty, attractions, and happiness of Neuroomia, I would have given anything at that moment to be on board the vessel I loved. Yondozi hoisted a flag that he had brought with him for the purpose, but I do not think they noticed it. I examined her through my glass, and recognised Septimus on the bridge, looking in the direction of the ice. Once or twice he turned round, but all I could do was to shake my clenched fist at him. I suggested that we make a fire, but Yondozi said it was not likely that it would attract their attention, owing to the number of active volcanic peaks in the vicinity. However, it was our last resort; so we made a fire and a big smoke too, but they either saw not or heeded not, for the Penguin kept on her course.

We let the animals go, to rest and graze on the natural pastures, then we prepared and ate our meal, for we were both tired and hungry.

Meanwhile I questioned Yondozi as to the prospects of the vessel clearing the ice. He said that it was possible she might get through, but the dangers to be encountered were great. First, there was evidence to show that the action of the current was becoming weaker, and if this continued, it would be liable to get frozen over;