CHAPTER XI.
CLOSE QUARTERS WITH THE ICE That no time should be lost on the upward voyage, and also that my Eskimos might not have too much leisure in which to consider the dangers which constantly threatened their floating home, I kept them all busy.
The men were put to work making sledges and dog-harness, so that when we reached Cape Sheridan--if we reached it,--we might be ready for the fall hunting.

I had on board the raw materials, and each Eskimo built a sledge for himself, putting his best work into it.

This pride of the Eskimo in personal achievement has been of great service to me, and has been encouraged by special prizes and special praise.
The Eskimo women were put to work on our winter garments as soon as possible after leaving Etah, so that, in the event of our losing the ship, every man would have a comfortable outfit.

In the North we wear practically the same clothing as the Eskimos, including the fur stockings with the fur on the inside.

Otherwise we should have frozen feet often instead of only occasionally.