The impetus with which he had started shot him forward till his head was within a foot of the walrus's grim muzzle.

For one moment the animal looked at the man, as if it were surprised at his audacity, and then it recommenced its frantic struggles, snorting blood, and foam, and water into Saunders's face as he scrambled out of its way.

Immediately after, Awatok fixed another harpoon in its side, and it dived again.
The struggle that ensued was tremendous, and the result seemed for a long time to be doubtful.

Again and again shots were fired and spear-thrusts made with effect, but the huge creature seemed invulnerable.

Its ferocity and strength remained unabated, while the men--sailors and Esquimau alike--were nearly exhausted.