Second The copy of Cook's notebooks does not contain any 

 original astronomical observations whatever, but only results. 



Third The documents presented are inexcusably lacking in 

 information which would prove that the astronomical observations 

 therein referred to were really made; and also contain no details 

 regarding the practical work of the expedition and the sledge jour- 

 ney, which would enable the committee to determine their reliability. 



This verdict was accepted as final by scientific men all over the 

 world; even personal friends of Dr. Cook deserted him and those 

 who had been closest to him could no longer assert their confidence. 

 The world in its anger turned to the chief actor for a reply or expla- 

 nation. Dr. Cook was expected to issue a statement. None came 

 out. The doctor could not be found. He had disappeared. It was 

 said that he had broken down and retired to a sanatorium. This 

 could not be proved. It was then said he had gone to Europe. 

 Search failed to locate him. Finally the conviction grew that after 

 posing as a hero, for three short months and collecting a comfort- 

 able fortune, he had simply run away! 



