Chapter 30—The Cairn
This phenomenon, which is peculiar to the polar regions, had lasted three quarters of an hour; the bears and foxes had had plenty of time; these provisions arrived opportunely for these animals, who were nearly starved during the inclement weather; the canvas cover of the sledge was torn by their strong claws, the casks of pemmican were opened and emptied; the biscuit-sacks pillaged, the tea spilled over the snow, a barrel of alcohol torn open and its contents lost, their camping materials scattered and damaged, bore witness to the ferocity of these wild beasts, and their greediness.
“This is a misfortune,” said Bell, gazing at this scene of ruin.
“Which is probably irreparable,” said Simpson.
“Let us first estimate the loss,” interrupted the doctor, “and we’ll tal
