at this time of year revolves in a great circle overhead--dipped
down below the distant mountains for the midnight hour, then rolled
slanting out again a few points farther north, to begin its long
journey anew; but he did not return. At last she crept stiffly in-
doors, like an old and weary woman, the look of fright still staring
in her eyes.

About nine o'clock the next morning a faint and long-drawn cry came
from the farthest limits of the little camp. An instant later it was
echoed closer, and then a dog began to howl. Before its voice had
died away another took it up sadly, and within three breaths, from
tip and down the half-mile of scanty water-front, came the cry of
"Steam-bo-o-a-t!" Cabin doors opened and men came out, glanced up
the stream and echoed the call, while from sleepy nooks and sun-
warmed roofs wolf-dogs arose, yawning and stretching. Those who had
slept late dressed as they hurried towards the landing-place,
joining in the plaint, till men and malamutes united in the shrill,
slow cry.

Down-stream came the faint-sighing whoof-whoof of a steamer, and
then out from behind the bend she burst, running on the swift spring
current with the speed of a deer. She blew hoarsely before the tardy
ones had reached the bank, and when abreast of the town her bell
clanged, the patter of her great wheel ceased, she reversed her
engines and swung gracefully till her bow was up against the
current, then ploughed back, inching in slowly until, with much
shouting and the sound of many gongs, she slid her nose quietly into
the bank beneath the trading-post and was made fast. Her cabin-deck
was lined with passengers, most of whom were bound for the
"outside," although still clad in mackinaw and overalls. They all