noon
When they looked out in the morning from the balcony , the northern coast of Russia was indistinctly seen in the southern horizon , and they were again floating over the floes and bergs of Arctic seas . `` We have crossed the 70th degree of latitude , '' said the Professor at breakfast . `` We are heading directly for Franz Joseph Land . We should sight that island by noon at our present rate of speed . '' All expressed themselves as delighted at the marvelous performance of Silver Cloud , and Denison declared that he should never be contented to settle down to slow going terrestrial life again . `` I move that we set out for the South Pole as soon as we get back to Washington , '' said he . `` I second the motion ! ''