The Land of the Viking and the Empire of the Tsar (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1889 Excerpt: ... CHAPTER II. FROM THE NORTH CAPE TO CHRISTIANS. The goal of our ambition was reached on Friday evening; anchoring two hundred yards from the shore, the passengers were rowed in small boats to the landing-stage at the foot of the North Cape. Having waited until all the foreigners had started, we went on shore at ten o'clock and the ascent began. Ye gods what a climb it was; it reminded us of childhood's one step forward and two steps back; for some fifty yards we had to scramble over stones and rocks, there being no path. When a third of the distance had been accomplished, we came upon a strong rope fastened to 2S iron posts, which was of great assistance; after that the sensation was extremely like walking up the side of a house, the narrow zigzag path being worn perfectly smooth by a multitude of tourists. An hour's climbing brought us to the summit, and then, after a walk of a mile over the plateau, we reached the place where the finest view was to be had. Separating ourselves from the crowd, we went off to a lonely promontory where we could quietly enjoy the wonderful experience. Although obscured by clouds, the sun cast the most exquisite shades on sea and mountains, and a peculiar pink tint on a rugged cliff toward the south was indescribably beautiful. There on the summit of the North Cape looking over the vast expanse of the Arctic Ocean, a feeling of profound awe filled our hearts, and the solemn memory of that hour will always be a cherished one. The weather being mild, it was difficult to realize that we were so far north, and we felt a strong inclination to sail farther and farther into the arctic regions. The weird desolation of the scene was intensified by the utter absence of all animal life. Gazing into the infinite space, we seemed alone wi...