174 THE RETURN TO FRAMHEIM 



Stubberud started up in his bunk and glared at us; 

 no doubt he took us for ghosts. One after another 

 they woke up — not grasping what was happening. 

 Then there was a hearty welcome home on all sides. 

 " Where's the Fram?" was of course our first question. 

 Our joy was great when we heard all was well. " And 

 what about the Pole? Have you been there?" — " Yes, 

 of course; otherwise you would hardly have seen us 

 again.'* Then the coffee kettle was put on, and the 

 perfume of *' hot cakes " rose as in old days. We agreed 

 that it was good outside, but still better at home. 

 Ninety-nine days the trip had taken. Distance about 

 1,860 miles. 



The Fram had come in to the Barrier on January 8, 

 after a three months' voyage from Buenos Aires; all 

 were well on board. Meanwhile, bad weather had forced 

 her to put out again. On the following day the look- 

 out man reported that the Fram was approaching. 

 There was life in the camp ; on with furs and out with 

 the dogs. They should see that our dogs were not worn 

 out yet. We heard the engine panting and grunting, 

 saw the crow's-nest appear over the edge of the Barrier, 

 and at last she glided in, sure and steadj''. It was with 

 a joyful heart I went on board and greeted all these 

 gallant men, who had brought the Fram to her destina- 

 tion through so many fatigues and perils, and had 

 accomplished so much excellent work on the way. 

 They all looked pleased and happy, but nobody asked 



