It was therefore a matter of no small satisfaction that, on turning the edge of an iceberg, they discovered a large bear walking leisurely towards them.

To drop their sledge-lines and seize their muskets was the work of a moment.
But, unfortunately, long travelling had filled the pans with snow, and it required some time to pick the touch-holes clear.

In this extremity Peter Grim seized a hatchet and ran towards the bear, while O'Riley charged it with a spear.

Grim delivered a tremendous blow at its head with his weapon; but his intention was better than his aim, for he missed the bear and smashed the corner of a hummock of ice.

O'Riley was more successful.