Over the merciless white snow--under the merciless black sky--the exploring party began to move.

The sick and helpless men, whose last hope of rescue centered in their departing messmates, cheered faintly.

Some few whose days were numbered sobbed and cried like women.
Frank's voice faltered as he turned back at the door to say his last words to the friend who had been a father to him.
"God bless you, Crayford!" Crayford broke away from the officers near him; and, hurrying forward, seized Frank by both hands.

Crayford held him as if he would never let him go.
"God preserve you, Frank! I would give all I have in the world to be with you.

Good-by! Good-by!" Frank waved his hand--dashed away the tears that were gathering in his eyes--and hurried out.