The Journey Across the Ice

This flow follows the boys’ ambitious skating expedition from Broek to The Hague and its return.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Distant Plan

A Distant Plan The proposal Jacob Poot and Benjamin Dobbs invite their companions on a long skating journey from Broek toward The Hague. The route promises sightseeing, companionship, and a test of endurance. The group forms Peter van Holp becomes captain, while the boys debate whether the youngest, Voostenwalbert Schimmelpenninck, can keep up. Their expedition begins as a holiday adventure but quickly becomes a test of mutual care.

The Lost Purse

The Lost Purse A sudden setback Peter discovers that the party’s shared purse, containing sixty guilders, has disappeared. The hungry boys face the prospect of turning back without completing their journey. A captain’s response Peter accepts responsibility but refuses to let disappointment divide the group. His good humor and steady leadership turn the loss into a decision to continue homeward together.

The Purse Returned

The Purse Returned An honest discovery Hans Brinker finds the purse beneath a log and recognizes it from an earlier payment. He returns it without accepting a share of the money. Trust deepens Peter sees Hans’s integrity and offers him paid carving work. The exchange turns a lost purse into the start of a lasting friendship and a practical opportunity for Hans.

Jacob’s Collapse

Jacob’s Collapse Exhaustion overtakes him Jacob Poot grows faint after trying to keep pace with the stronger skaters. The boys stop, revive him, and realize that their schedule must yield to his condition. A change of transport A passing iceboat agrees to carry the party toward Leiden. The detour preserves the expedition by recognizing that fellowship matters more than a record-breaking route.

The Homeward Race

The Homeward Race A journey’s return After visiting The Hague and spending several days with Peter’s sister, the boys begin skating home. On the way, Peter learns that Dr. Boekman has finally gone to the Brinker home. Friendship tested by speed Peter and Benjamin race on the ice, and Peter wins. Their rivalry remains affectionate, a fitting close to a journey sustained by competition and loyalty alike.

Saint Nicholas’s Eve, after the evening skating

The first day, upon reaching Haarlem

Later that day, outside Haarlem

The first day, on the canal toward Leiden

Several days later, leaving The Hague