THE WHITE WORLD 



a member, and which had a double object, the discovery of 

 the North Pole, and the rescue of Sir John Franklin. The 

 most intense interest was felt in regard to the fate of this 

 gallant man, an interest which extended in a large degree 

 to those who attempted his rescue. 



As a young man, my admiration for Dr. Kane had been 

 greatly excited, and my interest in his experiences in 

 the Arctic regions was very keen. My elation may there- 

 fore be imagined, when I received from my ideal hero 



From a painting by Albert Opertl 

 ICE LOCKED 



a letter asking for an interview at his home, 1116 Girard 

 Street, Philadelphia. Of course I complied with his re- 

 quest, and called upon him. At the suggestion of his 

 uncle, George H. Thomas, he made a proposition to me 

 to accompany him on a projected exploring expedition 

 to the Arctic regions, and to become one of the officers of 

 the expedition. I was naturally very much flattered, and 

 eagerly accepted the invitation, with the proviso that my 

 mother should give her consent. This consent was not 



