I may do so before we reach Nome.

But--it is possible--" "What ?" "That I shall never reach Nome." Suddenly she caught one of his hands in both her own.

Her fingers clung to him, and with a little note of fierceness in her voice she hugged the hand to her breast.

"I know just how good you have been to me," she cried.

"I should like to tell you why I came aboard--like that.