This announcement occasioned a long discussion as to what the cause of
their trouble could have been. One old Eskimo suggested that the ice
had broken up at the very moment that the kablunok--stranger--arrived,
and that his presence was undoubtedly the disturbing influence. White
men, he said, showed no respect for Torngak, and it was quite
reasonable, therefore, that Torngak should resent it and wish not only
to destroy the white men, but punish the innuit who gave the kablunok
shelter or assistance. If this were the case they could only hope for
relief after first driving Bob from their camp. When once purged of
his presence Torngak would be satisfied, he would send the ice back
into the bay and they would be enabled to return to the mainland and
to renew their hunting.
A long discussion followed this harangue in which all the men took
part with the exception of Tuavituk, who as Angakok reserved his
opinion until it should be called for in a professional way; and all
agreed with the first speaker save Akonuk and Matuk, who, being
visitors, spoke last.
Akonuk asserted that he and Matuk had travelled with the kablunok all
the way from Ungava and had enjoyed during that time not only perfect
safety and comfort, but had made an unusually quick and lucky journey,
killing all the ptarmigans and small game they wanted, and
experiencing with the exception of one snow-storm excellent weather
until they approached Kangeva.
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