JIMMY'S SACRIFICE For a little way the dogs traveled at a gallop, and Bobby and Skipper Ed had lively work while this lasted, guiding the _komatiks_ between the ice hummocks.

But it was not long before the first excitement of going upon a journey wore off, and after their manner the animals, with tails curled over their backs, settled down to a steady pulling.

Now and again they came upon a ridge of ice piled up by the tide, and then it was necessary to lift at the _komatiks_ and help the dogs.
Presently the ice hummocks were left behind and the smooth, white surface of the frozen bay stretched out before them.

The snow which covered the ice had been beaten down and hard packed by the wind, and the sledge runners slid over its surface so easily that the dogs increased their pace to a steady, rapid trot.
The weather was fearfully cold.

The runners of the sledge squeaked and creaked.