Balto in New York

      First class passengers

     It was the early July 1925. In Nome harbour, Gunner Kassen[1], Balto and the team stood on the deck of a magnificent steam ship The S.S Victoria.[2]  A statue commemorating the team’s incredible journey was due to be unveiled in New York City; team had been invited to attend the unveiling as the guests of honour.  The telegram had come as quite a shock; Kassen had never travelled to New York and the farthest some of dogs had been was the Canadian Border.    

     Standing on the deck near the team were Rosie and Jenna, along with Rosie’s parents Violet and Arthur. Rosie and her family were going to represent the residents of Nome.  Arthur had travelled to New York a few times, and his brother Alfred had lived there for a few years and still travelled to the city on business. 

     A large cheering crowd had gathered in the harbour, among them was Balto’s father Cathán, and Arthur’s parents Wilfred and Hilda North, who would be taking care of Alue. In Hilda’s arms was Alue looked up at her parents with pride, her fluffy tail wagging in delight.  

        With a blast of a horn the ship left port, on deck the team barked their goodbyes, excitement running through their veins.

“Can you believe this guys we are going to New York?” Kaltag said, as they sailed into the open ocean.

“Sure is amazing,” Star replied wagging his tail.

“I’d never even heard of New York!” Balto replied grinning. “I had to ask Rosie show me where it was in her atlas.”

“Did you see Steel’s face as he watched us leave?” asked Nikki slyly.

“That was priceless,” Star grinned.

      Laughing together the team turned to look at the boat they were standing on.  In recognition for their actions the party had been allocated First Class status to the delight of all. 

   “Hi Dad are you ready for a tour?”

    Turning around Balto saw his son Seward standing behind him, the name meant victorious sea guard, so was fitting for a ship’s dog. Seward had the same markings as Alue,[3] around his neck was a small chain link collar with a copper anchor handing from it. As ship’s dog his duties involved anything from deliver messages between crew to ensuring there were no stowaways.

“Of course we are son,” Balto replied, as Seward’s owner Captain Isaac Dover spoke to the humans.

       Humans and dogs happily followed Seward and Captain Dover below deck to begin their tour.  Other passengers greeted them, many carrying luggage while the crew guided them to their rooms.

 “This ship beautiful,” Jenna said, as they looked around the first class dining room.  

“Only the best for the Victoria,” Seward replied proudly.

     Leaving the dining room Seward and Captain Dover led the group down to their cabins. As they went, Captain Dover and Seward told tales of the ship’s history and illustrious passengers.

    Watching their son Balto and Jenna’s heart filled with joy at how happy he was. Unlike his brothers and sister, Seward was on his third home.[4]  The boy who had adopted Seward (then called Dingo) had done so with his parent’s permission, however his mother discovered she was pregnant soon afterwards. Despite the boy’s protests for Dingo’s good character, a week later Dingo had been dumped at harbour late one night by the boy’s father.

      Alone, cold, and terrified Dingo had wondered aimlessly until soft singing had drawn him onto the S.S Victoria.  There he had found Captain Dover singing. With gentle words Isaac had drawn the scared pup to him. That night the sea captain and the young husky had sat side by side, each drawing comfort from the other’s company. When the First Mate arrived the following morning he had been shocked to see a smile on Isaac’s face, the first one since Isaac’s wife had passed away. By midday Dingo had been renamed Seward and accepted as ship’s dog.  

“Welcome to your cabin,” Seward said as he, Balto, Jenna and Rosie entered a beautiful room with three porthole, chest of draws, mirror and comfortable looking double bed above which hung a painting of a narwhal and a mermaid.

“Is this room really mine?” Rosie asked, her eyes sparkling.[5]

“Yep, I made sure you had a nice room,” Seward replied grinning at Rosie. “Mom Dad you are sharing with Rosie.”

“I’m glad of that Dingo,” Jenna replied licking her son’s ear.

“Its Seward or First Canine Mate Mom,” Seward replied rolling his eyes.

“I know but I cannot help calling you by your old name,” Jenna smiled softly.

“She’ll grow used to your new name soon,” Balto whispered as Jenna looked around the room.

    Then the ship rolled causing all baring Seward to lose their balance. Picking himself up Balto saw his son laughing with a grin spread from ear to ear.

“Oh I don’t think I have my sea legs yet,” Balto groaned.

“Not yet Dad,” Seward laughed. “But if you are a sailor you soon will have.”

        Settling down to sleep that night Rosie snuggled down under the soft duvet, allowing the motion of the ship to lull her into a deep sleep. In her dreams Rosie saw a beautiful mermaid with a long white tail and silver hair swimming underneath and through icebergs. Turning over a smile danced over her sleeping face as the ship sailed silently through the icy waters.  

___________________________________________________________________________ 

     Over the next few weeks some of the dogs and humans did indeed prove to sailors while others proved not, Gunner Kassen being one of the latter. The weather proved fine, allowing dogs and humans to spend much of their time outside on deck mingling with the other passengers.  The crew often joined them, Isaac quickly taking a liking to Rosie and was shocked when she explained Seward’s parentage.

“Well I would never have guessed it,” Isaac said looking at Seward. “I did notice the similarity in colouring to Jenna but I presumed he was a nephew.”

“Seward is her son, I was there when he was born,” Rosie replied politely.

“Well I call him Seward, what did you name him?” Isaac asked as sitting down on a box.

“Daddy named him Dingo but I like Seward better. I’m glad you have given him a home Mr Dover.”

“It was my pleasure Rosie he has been a fine addition to the crew,” Isaac laughed stroking Seward.    

      At times other ships passed them resulting in pleasant shouted exchanges of news.  Each night the team and their humans dined with the captain and other guests, sharing stories and travel tips. 

        One day, as they sailed near Juneau, Balto Jenna, Rosie and Seward stood looking out at the scenery, watching as icebergs of varying sizes drifted past. Suddenly out of the water burst a pod of Orcas.

“Look Dad, Orcas,” Seward said wagging his tail.

“I’ve never them lose up before, they are magnificent animals,” Balto replied watching the Orcas swim leisurely.

“I am glad I’ve seen them again,” Rosie replied smiling widely.

   As if hearing the words three of the Orcas swam up the boat looking up with curiosity. Then with a flick of their tails they were gone, down into the depths of the sea.

“That was amazing,” Balto said watching them swim away.

  “That was strange normally they avoid boats,” Seward replied cocking his head to one side.

   Suddenly a whistle sounded followed by a cry of “land ho”, looking ahead all saw Juneau looming ahead of them. The crew burst into a flurry of action as the ship docked. Arthur joined the group to watch the activity from the deck. Juneau’s port was a hive of furious activity and noise. Ocean going steam ships sat next to small local fishing vessels and sailing ships. Hammering, shouting, yelling, the sound of engine and barking filtered through the air. The smells of fish, engine oil, rope, spices, wood and a dozen others mingled. On the key carts and vans waited to collect cargo, their drivers exchanging shouts with the men on the boats.

    The group watched as passengers disembarked from the S.S Victoria, each shaking Isaac’s hand as they stepped ashore. From the hold cargo was lifted out under the direction of the crew, sleds, tables, machine parts and ion gates flew through the air, with a young able seaman taking a ride on the top of a piano. Swinging through the air the piano was placed gently onto the back of a waiting lorry. With a wide grin the able seaman jumped down, walking back onto the ship with a whistle.

“Piano is all secure Captain,” he said handing Isaac the paperwork.

“I can see that, you gave some of our guest quite a fright,” Isaac chuckled pointing to Balto, Jenna, Rosie and Arthur.

“Sorry about that, all part of the job,” the man called up.

     By the time evening arrived all the unloading was done. Those crew members who had the night off had gone to explore the city leaving only a skeleton staff. Passengers relaxed in their cabins or had gone ashore to take in the nightlife. Out on deck to get some air, Jenna heard a familiar bark drifting towards here. A smile broke onto her face as a red and white husky ran onto the ship.

“EMBER!” Jenna cried as the husky licked her cheek. “How did you know I was here?”

“It’s good to see you Jen. I have many friends at the port as soon you arrived they got word to me,” Ember replied with a confident grin.

“I never thought I get to see you,” Jenna replied nuzzling him. “Tell me everything! I want all the details of what you have been up to.”

“Fair enough, so long as you tell me about your relationship with Balto, I want to make sure that wolf dog is good enough for my little sister.”

“Ember! Please you know everything Balto has done, we have pups together, one of which lives on this boat!” Jenna snapped in annoyance.

“It’s my job to watch out for you, besides I just want to make sure you are happy.”

“I am happy Ember, Balto is the one for me, he never saw me a trophy to be won.”

“So what began as friendship has become something more, I’m happy for you Jen.”

“Would you like to meet Balto?” Jenna asked as her eyes fell on a cut on her brother’s leg.

“Thanks but no I have to head home, I’m glad I got to see you Jen.”

“Ember are you alright?” Jenna asked looking at her brother with concern.

“I’m fine, Jen you know me I’m good at looking after myself,” Ember replied as Balto and Seward walked onto the deck. “So you are the famous Balto.”

“I am and you must be Ember, I’ve heard a lot about you,” Balto replied smiling.

“In the fur, so Balto have you been taking care of my little sister?”

“I have been taking perfect care of her I swear to you,” Balto replied looking at Ember.

“I’m glad, you are a good dog Balto,” Ember replied grinning. “So then Seward it is good to see you again.”

“It is Uncle Ember,” Seward replied seeing the shocked looks on the faces of his parents.

“YOU PLANNED THIS!” Jenna stammered.

“Down to the last detail, your son is a bright pup,” Ember grinned as Balto and Seward chuckled.

“Well this has been fun but I have to be going, take care of her wolfie, goodbye Jen.”

       In a swift bound Ember left the boat as Jenna watched him go with sadness on her eyes. Seeing the pain Balto and Seward nuzzled her as they watched the red husky slip into the night.

“That’s Ember for you, a law onto himself, I’m glad you and he got chance to meet,” Jenna said smiling.

“He is just as you described him, a good brother,” Balto chucked.

“Uncle Ember is great, he has taught me loads,” Seward replied grinning.

“I imagine he has, come on time we were all in bed,” Jenna replied rolling her eyes.

     The following day the boat left Juneau behind sailing through the Gulf of Alaska. Down through Canadian waters they stopped for a couple of days in Vancouver t unload and take on both cargo and passengers. 

       It was on a bright morning that S S Victoria pulled into Seattle to be greeted by a cheering crowd. The eyes of the dogs and humans widened as they had never seen so many people.

“If this is the reception here what is going to be like in New York?” Balto whispered to Star.

“Like this but bigger, much bigger,” Star replied looking at the crowd.”

    Hero’s Welcome

       Star’s words about the teams reception in New York proved correct when they arrived in the city, thought not even Star could have imagined the crowd that greeted them when they arrived on Manhattan Island. The city mayor John Francis Hyland welcomed the group off the boat and gave a speech detailing the group’s activities in the week leading up to the unveiling of the statue.

  “Well now I am sure our guests are tired and in need of their rest, they have had a long trip,” Mayor Hyland said shaking the paws of Balto, Star, Kaltag and Nikki.

      An hour later the team arrived at their hotel, a five star establishment that looked out over Central Park. Exploring their rooms the dog gasped at the luxury art deco style. The hotel often hosted canine guests, as its owner, a slight eccentric film producer, viewed animals as people in fur coats that deserved the same level of luxury as humans. Baskets of the finest materials, food served in silver bowls, a large garden and even a rooftop pool just for dogs. Eccentric and over the top but the hotel did a roaring trade, especially among the rich and famous.

 “Blimey,” Nikki said looking around the richly decorated room selected for the sled team.

“No kidding, don’t know why a dog closet jewelled collars,” Star replied nosing open a small closet.

“I have no idea,” Nikki replied rolling his eyes. “Owner of this place must be barking.”

    Elsewhere Balto and Jenna stood in Rosie’s room that included beds for the pair and on suit bathroom.

“This is like a princess room,” Rosie said looking out of the window.

“It is and you are the perfect princess,” Balto replied putting his paws on the windowsill.

“We are going to have so much fun!”

      That evening while the dogs relaxed in their rooms, Gunner, Arthur, Violet and Rosie attend a welcome party in the hotel’s ballroom. In their best clothes they made a very smart party, easily engaging with fellow guest who were eager to hear tales from Alaska. With her sweet smile Rosie charmed each guest, telling them about her experiences during the epidemic and her friendship with Balto.

“Art your daughter is such a sweet child, she will be a heart breaker in a few years,” said Harold Jocelyn handing Arthur a drink.

“Don’t I know it Harold, if it wasn’t for the team she wouldn’t be here,” Arthur replied taking a drink.

   Harold Jocelyn an old friend of Arthur’s elder brother Alfred from collage. A New Yorker born and bred, he was a major player in the gold and diamond industry.   

“She has been telling me about her experience, amazing how she became friends with Balto, most children would run at the sight of a wolf, dog blood or not.”

“I wish I knew the answer myself, they have been friends since he was a pup. The number of times I would find them playing it together caused me no end of worry.”

“I can sympathise Art, I have two children as you know and I worry about them constantly. My son sent a baseball through the open window of my study last week, hit me on the back of the head, I still have the lump.”

“Heck that’s big,” Arthur chuckled looking at the lump. “Bad luck, the chances of that happening must be slim, at least he didn’t break a window.”

“It rounded off a very bad week. Pranged the car on a builder’s skip on Monday, my secretary has been down with food poisoning and discovered the FBI are investigating several colleagues with suspected links to gangsters.”

“Cripes that is a bad week Harry!” Arthur replied as Rosie and Violet walked over.

“What are gangsters Mr Jocelyn?” Rosie asked.

“Bad men who make my job harder,” Harold groaned. “Call me Harry by the way, none of this Mr Jocelyn business you are a friend.”

“I will remember,” Rosie yawned.

“Time you went to bed Rosie,” Art said picking her up.

“I’m tired.”

“You get some rest you will need your energy,” Harold replied as Arthur took Rosie to bed.

    Entering Rosie’s room Arthur found a pair of glowing amber eyes watching him, smiling as his eyes fell on Balto and a sleeping Jenna lying in their beds. Helping Rosie into bed Arthur pulled the covers around her smiling as she fell into a deep sleep.

     Closing the door Arthur went back down to the party where he found Violet dancing with Harold. Seconds later Harold’s wife took Arthur’s wife and the pair took to the floor. With a lively jazz band playing the latest hits the party turned up a notch, the hotel staff determined to the showing the visitors how New Yorkers partied. By the time the party ended the following morning Arthur and Violet’s feet were hurting and both felt utterly exhausted.  

Opening the door of Rosie’s room a fraction, Arthur saw a brilliant white light near her bed, stepping into the room he saw a white wolf laid there. Unable to believe his eyes he shook his head, the wolf remained, gazing calmly at him with amber eyes.

“Bed Art, the travelling must be catching up with you,” he muttered closing the door.

    The following day was quiet for all as the team and humans took the day to rest from their journey. Relaxing in the garden the dogs played with Rosie while the adults chatted over coffee, reading the sun with the day’s newspapers. The each paper had a different headline about Balto, with all giving details of the team’s appearances that week. The day passed peacefully for all and all were grateful for the rest.

    The on the second day of their visit everyone was up bright and early, as they would be appearing at in a parade that would line the route to the city hall. Walking out of the hotel the team were met by photographers keen to grab a picture. The humans waved and Rosie gripped onto Jenna’s bandanna as the men towered over her. “Back boys let them through!” yelled a couple of policemen.

    Swiftly the reports backed away allowing the team to board an open top bus. The bus was decked out in blue, white and silver ribbons. Walking upstairs the group saw for the first time the crowds that had gathered on the pavements and the banners with the names of the dogs and humans strung between lampposts. With a rumble of the engine the bus set off through along the route. People cheered, throwing flowers as the bus passed by, calling out the names of the dogs and Gunner.

“Wow all this for us,” Balto muttered looking at the vast crowds.

“All this for you Balto,” Nikki replied grinning. “You are the hero here.”

“I led you home, you are heroes too.”

“We got the medicine home but we were in trouble until you arrived, you are the true hero,” Nikki said while the other dogs nodded.

 “You deserve this all of you for what you did,” Jenna said looking at her friends.

“It’s overwhelming though,” Balto replied as the team looked around them.

          Arriving at the city hall the team was met by a crowd of hundreds who had gathered to hear the speeches. Disembarking from the bus they walked up the steps on a rich red carpet up. Reaching the top their paws and hands were shock by city officials and prominent citizens, while the watching crowd cheered.

 “Welcome one and all, today we are gathered to celebrate an extraordinary act of bravery and courage against all the odds. Balto, a dog who had never led the team, managed to guide them home and save the lives of Nome’s children,” Mayor Hyland said facing the crowd.

“For this extraordinary act of courage we honour him and present him with the freedom of New York City.”

     Balto walked over to Mayor Hyland who placed a gold medal around his neck, a yellow ribbon highlighting his amber eyes. As Mayor Hyland spoke of his deeds Balto felt himself fill with happiness and pride at all he had achieved. One by one his teammates and musher Gunner Kassen received a silver medal from the mayoress as Mayor Hyland spoke.

“So that is their tale, I know invite musher Gunner Kaseen to speak, for he alone saw what happened on the trail.”

     Blushing from ear to ear Gunner Kassen stepped forward awkwardly, stumbling at first with nerves he told the assembled crowed of his experience. Explaining about being knocked unconscious he spoke of the few memories he had after Balto found the team; being pushed onto the sled by the dogs, watching the forest go by, hearing a wolf howl and finally waking up in a warm hospital bed.

“Well that is about all I can tell you. How Balto found the team or why he even looked I cannot explain,” Gunner said looking at Balto. “I will say this, it was a good job he did. Guess you could call it a miracle.”

“A miracle indeed,” Mayor Hyland said clapping. “I know invite Arthur North to tell of the events from the parents view, his daughter Rosanna survived the epidemic.”

     Smiling Arthur calmly walked over to the podium, as a lawyer he often faced crowds so was used to public speaking.

  “I can honestly say that time Rosie was ill was the worst period of mine and my wife’s life. Not knowing for certain that the medicine would make it.”

    Steadily Arthur spoke of how it was for the children’s parents, the constant fear, sleepless night, the argument that erupted out of tension and the constant prayers of a miracle.

“It was a miracle when Balto and the team appeared, for saving Rosie’s life we will be forever grateful,” Arthur said stroking Balto’s head.

  The crowd erupted in a tremendous cheer for the team; cameras flashed capturing the moment for prosperity. Mayor Hyland and city officials posed with the team and humans, all giving their best smiles. Standing next to Jenna, Rosie smiled widely as the reports came forward to speak to her, a quote from an actual victim of the epidemic was sure to make the editor happy was the thinking, especially when the victim was so adorable.

      After the photos had been taken the team went inside the town hall for lunch with the mayor, mayoress, city officials and prominent citizens. Also present were dogs belonging to the above groups of humans. Sitting together Balto and Jenna chatted to a few of the dogs. A poodle called Georgette, a handsome Scottie called Jock, a dignified Dalmatian called Penny and a stunning cocker spaniel called Lady. The dogs told the pair of life in New York, explaining the different districts and how society worked.

“While you are here you simply must stop by Tiffany’s,” Georgette said. “All humans with any breeding shop there, to be seen there is to simply live, my owner owns it.”

“It is one of the nicest places in town,” Penny said smiling. “I go there often with my humans, the assistants are wonderful, the place to see and be seen.”

“I think we have set places to be this week so I am not sure if we will be able to,” Jenna replied sweetly. “It does sound a nice place.”

“It certainly is, but it is not a must see place, it is only shopping after all,” Jock replied rolling his eyes. “I would try to visit The Statue of Liberty, therein lays the heart of America.”

“I hope we do,” Balto replied with a grin. “I know Rosie wants to visit the statue.”

“She has heard so many stories about the city from her uncle Alfred over the years,” Jenna replied.

“Such a sweet child,” Penny replied kindly. “You will have a fabulous time this week.”

“Most certainly you are dogs of class, the city is at your paws Balto for your heroic actions,” Jock said proudly.

  Tour of the town

   On the fourth day of their arrival, dogs and humans awoke early as they had a busy day ahead of them. The previous day they had paid a visit to Tiffany’s where they had been treated like film stars. Georgette had personally shown them around, including the famous Tiffany Diamond.      

    Sitting down for breakfast, dogs chatted over their food, discussing the places they would visit that day. At the table Rosie was busy putting peanut butter on a beagle, while Arthur read the morning paper as he ate a plate of pancakes

“What is so interesting in the paper Art?” Violet asked placing a knife handle between the pages.

“Oh Dowager Empress Maria is visiting President Coolidge as part of a visit to the United States. According to the paper she will attend a ball at the White House and speak at a couple of Ivy League colleges,” Arthur replied smiling.

“Oh I hope the visit goes well,” Violet replied, pouring herself a cup of coffee.

“According to the paper she will give a lecture on the Russian Royal family and the impact of conflict. In her interview she has spoken about her eagerness to use her experience for something positive but as usual the press has dragged up her granddaughter.”[6]

“Those people!” Violet snapped shaking her head. “Why cannot they leave the subject alone, the poor woman has suffered enough without them asking questions?”

 “They like a story, missing princess presumed dead always sells papers,” Arthur replied rolling his eyes and putting the paper away.

             Leaving the breakfast room a short time later dogs and human climbed into a pair of cars and set off through the busy streets. Horns beeped, engines growled and driver yelled at each other in the morning traffic. On the pavements pedestrians hurried along, smart business men in suits, labours in hard boots. Spanish, English, Italian, Dutch and a dozen other languages could be heard as people went about their morning. As they approached the Brooklyn Bridge the traffic increased. Near the bridge a crowd had gathered to meet the dogs as it was well known they would be walking across the bridge.

   The cars stopped, dogs and humans got out, greeted by a cheer from the waiting crowds and a wide smile from Mayor Hyland.

“Impressive isn’t it?” Mayor Hyland said seeing the look of awe on Rosie’s face.

“I have never seen a bridge so big,” Rosie replied grinning.

“Then you will enjoy walking over it,” Mayor Hyland replied.

    With the sun shining brightly above them, dogs and humans walked steadily onto the Brooklyn Bridge, mingling easily with the crowds. Men and woman passed on their way to work, with many children and their parents stopping to stroke the dogs and have their picture taken. A crowd gathered around Gunner for an autograph, asking questions about life in Alaska. Arthur and Violet received their share of attention as adults were interested to hear how the epidemic affected the parents.

“The view is fantastic we can see the entire of Manhattan from here,” Balto said placing his paws up on the railing.

“It is stunning,” Jenna replied looking around her.

“Balto Jenna, look we can see the Statue of Liberty,” Rosie cried with excitement pointing to the statue. “I have always wanted to see her.”

“We will be going to visit her tomorrow,” Balto replied with a grin. “I cannot believe we are here.”

“I like New York a lot,” Rosie replied as a photographer walked over.

“Miss could I take your picture with Balto?” the man asked kindly.

“Yes you can,” Rosie replied politely with a smile.

“I have heard he is a good friend of yours.”

“One of my best friends,” Rosie replied as Balto barked in reply.

“That’s great, now then the three of you together and big smiles.”

     Rosie put her arms around Balto and Jenna, the three smiled widely as the camera clicked.

“Thanks miss that pic will make the front page, you are very sweet,” the man said as Arthur walked over. “Nothing to worry about sir I was just taking a picture of your adorable daughter.”

    Seeing the sincerity in the man’s eyes as the ease at which Balto and Jenna stood Arthur smiled and offered the man his hand.

“I saw you taking the picture so long as Rosie agreed I don’t mind in the slightest.”

“Thank you sir,” the reporter said with a wave as he walked away.

        The trio were joined by Kaltaq and Nikki, the pair putting their paws on the railings to look out across the river. Beneath them boats sailed under the bridge, as they watched a small boat docked at Elis Island, at the same time a large White Star Line cruise docked at Manhattan. The breeze gently teased their fur providing a welcome relief from the heat.

“GIVE THOSE BACK YOU DEVILS!”

     Whipping around Kaltag, Balto, Nikki, Jenna and Rosie saw three dogs running away, carrying Violet’s handbag and Gunner’s wallet in their teeth. One dog was tall and grey, another a brown Chihuahua with a green band around some red fur and the third a medium sized white dog with white spots and a red bandanna around his neck. Quick as a flash a pair of police Dobermans called Rasco and Buster gave chase, however the thieves had vanished into the crowd. As Mayor Hyland and the policeman apologized to the humans, Buster walked over the small group.

“Terribly sorry you had to witness that,” Buster apologised.

“Don’t worry about it, these things happen,” Nikki replied. “That trio were very quick.”

“They are the leaders of a gang of expert thieves, Tramp, Dodger and Tito are on our most wanted list.”

“Well like I said things happen,” Nikki replied shaking his head.

         Notes were taken and a police report was filed with Hyland promising to personally repay and replace the missing items. On leaving the bridge a short time later humans and dogs took a walking tour of the city with Mayor Hyland as their guide. Passing through Wall Street the group were greeted by smart bankers in very expensive suits.  

     Leaving the bankers behind the group walked along the bustling streets. They passed delis, haberdashers, green grocers, butchers and bakers. Stopping outside one bakery Mayor Hyland took the dogs inside to meet the owner and patrons. The owner greeted them in an accent that was a mix of Italian and American. After a picture was taken the dogs were given half a beagle each while the humans received a full one, all fresh from the oven.

“I love beagles,” Rosie said eating her which was cinnamon and raisin.

“There is nothing nicer than one on a cold morning,” Mayor Hyland replied kindly as they walked.

“The dogs loved theirs too.”

“I suspect they do,” Hyland replied.

“Where are going?”

“To Grand Central Station,” Hyland replied, waving to senator for the city who was passing on the opposite side of the road.

     Walking along Hyland pointed out local landmarks, passing a section of fenced land Rosie asked what it was for.

“Walt Chrysler owns it, he has some mad scheme to build a skyscraper, says it will be the tallest building in the city. I’ll eat my hat if it comes off!”

    As they neared the station the traffic increased dramatically, taxis and private cars clogging the road. Delivery and messenger boys passed on bicycles, boys with piles of newspapers shouted the day’s headlines. Arriving at the station the group greeted the passengers with the children taking delight in meeting the dogs. Visiting the art galleries they had their pictures sketched by a group of third year art students and their tutor.

“Well these pictures are very good, each of you has done very well,” said the tutor looking sketches.

“I cannot believe how still are subjects have sat, my dog never sits so still when I want to draw him,” said one lad.

  At this Balto, Jenna and Kaltag barked, wagging their tail from side to side. The students laughed, stroking the dog’s fur and receiving licks in return.   

“Miss Rosie was perfect,” called another boy. “I tried to sketch my little cousin once; she was up and running after ten minutes.”

“I like drawing, it was nice to pose for a sketch,” Rosie replied sweetly.

“You are so sweet Rosie,” the tutor said.

“Say we don’t need to keep these sketches do we?” asked one girl stroking Star.

“No necessarily, why do you ask?”

“I thought we could give some to our subjects if we don’t want them,” the girl replied smiling. “I would like to give mine to Rosie.”

 “Me too, it’s not often people or dogs have their portrait painted,” called a red haired lad.

        The students agreed, rolling up their sketches into a strong tube to protect them. Leaving the galleries the group toured the platforms, watching trains depart and leave to all parts of the US. Leaving the Grand Central the dogs chatted about the day’s events.

“Hey guys look over there,” Nikki said pointing to the top of a car.

        Lying on top of the car were Tramp and Tito, both chatted easily with not a care in the world. Looking at each other the sled team narrowed their eyes. With a nod of their heads Kaltag and Nikki sprinted across the road, narrowly missing a passing postman who swerved just in time. Seeing the pair approach Tramp and Tito leaped from the car, setting off at a quick pace through the busy streets. Oblivious to the shouting of Gunner, Nikki and Kaltag pursued to two thieves, knowing they would catch them.

  As Tito rounded a corner outside the entrance of building site, he tripped over a piece of chain sending him a bag of cement. His head spinning Tito looked up, to his horror Kaltag and Nikki stood over him.

“Now them you little lemming, why did you steal our musher’s wallet?” asked Nikki as Tito climbed to his paws.

“He is a tourist so fair game,” Tito replied in a Mexican accent. “If he was too stupid to watch his wallet in this town then he deserved it.”

“Not fair lemming, you crossed the wrong dogs,” Kaltag replied picking Tito up by his bandanna.

“Put me down you,” Tito yapped uttering a series of Mexican words.

“Not a chance,” Nikki said glaring at him.

“LEAVE HIM ALONE!”

    Turning around Kaltag and Nikki saw Tramp running towards them, a look of anger on his face. Seeing him Tito let out a sigh of relief, though he would never admit it, the two sled dogs scared him, slightly.

“So the other thief has come.”

“Tramp you got to get this pair of tourist off my case,” Tito yapped angrily.

“Relax Tito I’ll handle them,” Tramp replied coolly. “Let him go, you guys are tourist, the last thing you want is trouble.”

“You should have thought about that before you stole our friend’s wallets,” Nikki replied forcefully. “Sled dogs don’t take kindly to that sort of thing.”

“This is NYC boys, different set of rules here, we can all walk away from this unharmed.”

        As they Kaltag spotted what was written on the side of the lorry pulled up next to them, on the side of the lorry was written H. W TIMBER MERCHANT NEW JERSEY. In a swift bound Kaltag crabbed Tito by his bandanna and jumped into a low wall, throwing Tito into the back of the open lorry. Seconds later the owner returned swiftly closing and locking the back of the lorry. Tramp watched in horror as the lorry pulled away while Nikki and Kaltag laughed.

  “That is what happens when you cross a sled team,” Nikki chuckled as the pair returned to their friends.   

          The following day Rosie woke up early, bouncing out of bed and waking Balto and Jenna. Yawning Balto stretched as Jenna shook herself.

 “We’re going to Liberty Island,” Rosie grinned bouncing on her bed. “We know,” Jenna laughed.

“I’ve always wanted to see her.”

        Travelling by car down to the port the dogs watched the world go by, among the traffic they caught sight of Tramp and Dodger, both looking very unhappy. Arriving at the port they were greeted by the ship’s captain and a German Sheppard, both leading them onto the boat that would take them to liberty. Standing on the top deck humans and dogs looked out across the bay as the boat set off. The wind blew fur and hair this way and that. Standing at the railings Rosie looked around at the ships that sailed in and out. Boats from every corner of the world sailed passed, many docking at Elis Island.

“Rosie is enjoying herself,” Jenna whispered smiling.

“She sure is, I think she likes it here,” Balto replied.

      As Balto and the team watched the scenery go by they chatted to the German Sheppard who was called Charlie.[7] When Nikki mentioned their run in with Tramp and co Charlie rolled his eyes.

“That gang are run by a human called Fagin, there are about six other dogs who work for him, Fagin’s a rouge.”

“That I can believe,” Nikki replied.

“That’s only half of it. Fagin is the mastermind of a human gang too. NYP have been after him for twenty year, big money frauds, robbery, cons, gambling, illegal liquor, it’s a known fact he master minded a spate of recent bank jobs that netted close to 2.5 million.” Charlie said.

      At this the dog’s eyebrows shot up, in Nome crime was low so they couldn’t imagine a villain like Fagin.

“How is he not in jail?” asked Jenna.

“Simple, they cannot prove he’s involved,” Charlie replied rolling his eyes. “Fact is they know he’s guilty but they don’t have a shred of evince that will stand up in court and no judge with try him without that. Fagin has several legit business, he’s also very sharp with a brain for business so and a fair knowledge of the law.”

  “Sounds like a slippery customer, him and his dog underlings,” Nikki replied as they docked.

     Disembarking humans and dogs were greeted by a cheering crowd of visitors. Walking up the base of the statue the group had their pictures taken. Standing there the dogs fidgeted, all a little tired of all the photographs. Leaving the statues base the group went inside the statue itself.

“Now this is a sight,” Star whispered as they walked up the metal stairs.

“The dogs at home will never believe it,” Nikki replied looking up.

       Walking up they soon reached the crown from which they had a very god view of the bay. Leaving the statue the dogs returned to the ground and the cheering crowds. Leaving the island in the light of the setting sun they watched the sunset over Manhattan from the boat.

     Statue in Central Park

      A week after arriving in New York the sled team and their humans walked into Central Park. Carefully washed and brushed the dog’s fur gleamed. The humans were dressed in their best. In blue dress with a blue bow in her hair Rosie looked very pretty. Around her neck hung a silver snowflake on a silver chain, a present from Tiffany’s. As the statue was not going to be unveiled till 4pm they had the day to see the sights in the park. 

      Free from their leads for the first time in days the team raced through the park, their joyous barks echoing through the trees. As it was a Saturday the park was full of children who were delighted when the dogs approached them. Playing baseball with a group of teenage boys, Kaltag, Star and Nikki fielded much to the boy’s joy. Nearby children threw sticks for other members of the team while Rosie played fetch with Balto and Jenna. Lifting his camera Gunner took pictures of the dog as they played a wide smile on his face. Above them the sun shone and a gentle breeze blew, in the trees birds tweeted, while squirrel scampered beneath them, a perfect summer’s day for all.

      Sitting down for lunch on a blanket the humans and dogs relaxed under the shade of a large tree. With their thick coats the dogs found the head hard to bear, all wishing they were home in the cold. Looking at the sparking lake in front of him Balto leaped to his paws, jumping off a rock, he landed in with a loud splash. Surfacing he found the adults staring at him with mild annoyance while Rosie with laughing.

  “Come in the water is lovely and cool,” Balto called shaking his fur.

“Sounds lovely,” Star called running in to join him.

        With large grins the team dived into the water, the coolness hitting them immediately. Wagging his tail Balto flicked water at Nikki’s face, to which Nikki replied by flicking water back at Balto, only for it to go over Star. Glaring at the pair Star exchanged a look with Kaltag and another sled dog, before Balto or Nikki could react the trio jumped on them, sending them under the water. Surfacing with gaps Balto and Nikki glared at the grinning trio. Within seconds a ferocious water fight erupted between the team members.

 “Coming in to join us Jen?” Balto asked turning to face the shore.

“No I think I will stay here, I don’t want my fur wet,” Jenna replied walking over to the water’s edge.

“You look beautiful with wet fur,” Balto called swimming over. “I can see your warm, come on.”

“Not today Balto,” Jenna called walking away.

       Sitting back down next to Rosie, she watched the boys play.

“Balto was very silly to do that, I think he wanted you to cool down,” Rosie said stroking her.

“Oh he thought it was very funny,” Jenna replied watching the boys walk out of the water.

“Well that was a fun swim,” Balto said shaking his coat.

“Balto now I’m wet,” Rosie giggled

 “Sorry Rosie,” Balto replied nuzzling her.

“Uh wet dogs, at least they will dry quickly,” Gunner said shaking his head at the soaking team.

    Leaving their spot under the tree dogs and humans walked side by side through the park. Music drifted through the trees, turning a corner they came to a carousel.

“Mom can I please have a ride?” Rosie asked.

“Of course you can,” Violet said taking money from her cream handbag.

    Smile Rosie climbed onto a horse with a light brown mane and tail with a brown and white body. Alongside her other children sat on horse, all brimming with excitement. The music started to play coinciding with the slow movement of the horses. Simultaneously the music and horses increased in speed to the children’s delight. Sitting on her horse Rosie waved to Arthur, Violet, Jenna and Balto. Waving back Arthur took a couple of photos of her.

“That was fun,” Rosie said brightly jumping off her horse.

“It looked fun,” Jenna said nuzzling her.

     Walking up towards the scene of statue unveiling they chatted with excitement, the crowds beginning to gather in anticipation. Arriving at the statute they found it covered in a thick cloth, next to the statue stood the sculptor and city officials.

“Perfect timing,” said Mayor Hyland. “We will have quite a crowd.”

“Well all the papers have been running the story for the past week,” replied Arthur smiling. “These fellas have done a great publicity job.”

       The crowd began to gather, the local and national press arrived in preparation.  The air brimmed with anticipation, people chattered easily, on a wooden stage that had been erected next to the statue humans and dogs waited. When the clock struck 4pm Mayor Hyland stood up to address them.

“Central Park stands at the heart of our city, a place of peace where all can come and enjoy. To have a statue placed here is a great honour, one given to those few who have earned it. Today we add a new statue, one to honour both man and dog. To save a town Balto and his team risked life and death in the frozen wastes. Yet what is even more remarkable is that Balto guided his team home through a blizzard when their musher was injured. Balto had never led a team before, his actions are remarkable. For all these reason we honour him and his team with a statue.”

    The crowd cheered loudly as the statue’s sculptor Fredrick G. R. Roth stepped forward.

“It has been a great honour to create this statue, working with a real husky as a model has been particularly interesting.  I followed the story as it unfolded in the newspapers. At the time I remember praying that if the children lived I would use my skills to create a work to commemorate the event. I never imagined that my prayer could come true in this way. I now ask Rosie, Gunner and Balto to step forward and unveil the statute?”

            Taking told of the cloth that covered the statue Gunner and Rosie pulled it back. Briefly the cloth fluttered in the wind, almost like a white flag. The audience gasped as the statue, the dog’s eyes were round with amazement. Standing next to the statue Gunner, Rosie and Balto posed for pictures. Watching from the stage Jenna felt her heart fill with pride.  Stepping down from the statue Gunner and Rosie returned to the stage leaving Balto alone. Standing next to his statue Balto threw his head back and howled, his howl echoing through the park, a call filled with pride, I AM HERE COME TO SEE ME.

       85 Years later

October 2010 New York City

      Fall had come to Central Park, trees were starting to turn and the Wollman Ice ring had been set up. For October it was an unusually warm day, bringing a host of residents and tourist to the park. Among the tourist walked a family from England, a man, woman and a girl. The girl was 21 dressed in a denim skirt and red checked shirt, a hat with a husky’s face on it over her brown hair. A look of utter excitement was on the girls face as they headed in direction of the zoo.

 “I think it is this way, I know we have to go under a bridge to get to it,” the girl said looking at her parents.

“Well the sign says zoo this way,” replied her mum looking at the map.

    As they walked under a bridge they saw the statue of Balto ahead of them. Instantly a huge smile appeared on the girl’s face. Reaching the statue the girl place her hand on Balto’s paw, her eyes drinking in the sight of the gleaming metal. Taking out her camera she snapped picture of the famous statue. The sunlight shone through the trees, for a moment, bathing the statue in a halo of light.

 “Will you take my picture with him?” the girl asking turning to face her parents.

“Of course Laura, climb up next to him,” her Dad replied.

     Climbing up next to Balto, Laura put her arms around his neck, smiling with utter joy as her parents took picture.

“Happy to see him at last?” asked her mum.

“Yes, I have wanted to see him since I was seven and I saw the statue in the film,” Laura replied climbing down.

“Well given the money you’ve spend on that pair if plushies, shipping them from America to England he must be special,” her Dad chuckled aware of the importance. 

      On the ground Laura knelt at the base of the statue, running her hands along the engraving of the sled team.

“Dedicated to the indomitable spirit of the sled dogs that relayed antitoxin six hundred miles over rough ice across treacherous waters through Arctic blizzards from Nenana to the relief of stricken Nome in the winter of 1925 Endurance Fidelity Intelligence.” Laura read running a hand over the words.

     Reaching into her bag she drew out a small plastic figure of a brown cartoon wolf. Gently she placed the figure in front of statue, just in front of the engraved name BALTO. Taking out her camera she took a picture of the two, before placing the figure at edge of the plaque, just in front of the lead dog.

“I couldn’t bring my Balto plush with me so I decided to bring my Balto figure instead,” Laura said turning to her parents. 

“Finally seeing the statue means so much to me. I think when I get home I’ll write a story about Balto coming here to see his statue unveiled.”

    Climbing back up onto the statue Laura placed one arms around Balto while holding her Balto figure in her other hand, standing in the same spot that Balto had years before.

   This final part is my visit to Balto’s statue. The picture on the front cover is one I took, the one I described as a halo of light. This very story was inspired by my visit, the one I told my parents I would write. Balto’s statue stands as a monument to him and a special place for all Balto fans.

      Balto: Endurance, Fidelity, Intelligence.