ABRUZZI, THE ROYAL ITALIAN EXPLORER 427 



speed of five miles a day, but during the second stage they doubled 

 that, and covered, on an average, ten miles a day. From their ex- 

 perience they argued it was impossible to reach the Pole from any 

 such base as that at Teplitz Bay while dog sledges were the only 

 available means of transport. 



With the return of this detachment the work of the expedition 

 was at an end. The vessel was freed from the ice after a little diffi- 

 culty, and, proving to be seaworthy, steamed out of the bay on 

 August I4th. They arrived at Hammerfest without mishap on 

 September 5th. They were given a most enthusiastic reception on 

 their return to Italy, having given that country the honor of reach- 

 ing the "farthest north." 



