Thence they tobogganed to the bank and followed the men away from the lead.

Their retreat was soon cut off by a line of men.
"We walk up to them, talking loudly and assuming a threatening aspect.
Notwithstanding our bad manners, the three birds turn towards us, bowing ceremoniously.

Then, after a closer inspection, they conclude that we are undesirable acquaintances and make off across the floe.

We head them off and finally shepherd them close to the ship, where the frenzied barking of the dogs so frightens them that they make a determined effort to break through the line.

We seize them.