The Frozen Pirate

The narrator recounts a sea voyage that is shattered by a sudden storm and collision with floating ice, leaving survivors adrift and separated from their ship. They reach a bleak ice coast and explore a frozen island where they discover a stranded schooner and evidence of prior violent acts and hidden wealth. Investigation of the wreck and its hold reveals a pirate's tale and leads to a search for a treasure partly concealed within icy mines. Tensions rise among the small party, illness and death occur, and shifting ice forces dangerous movement. Rescue prospects appear when another vessel is sighted, and the narrative closes with the party's further passage toward open water.