Vlll PREFACE. 



logical questions data on which they may build more 

 reliable theories than prevailed previous to this Expe- 

 dition. 



Another question, and one not unattended by oppor- 

 tunity for cavil, may be found in the measures which 

 were adopted by me for the preservation of the health of 

 my crew, as well as the comfort between decks ; but on 

 all these matters I think that figures and facts must 

 drown all cavil, and that in any future fittings the sys- 

 tem advocated and proved by me must have force in 

 a sanitary point of view. The deaths which occurred 

 were clearly those which might have been avoided by a 

 more strict attention to the selection of the individuals ; 

 none could be classed as the result of Arctic travel or 

 exposure. 



Other matters, embracing periodic returns of gales, 

 bad weather, and unaccountable disruption of the ice 

 after winter had apparently set its seal on the season, 

 offer subjects for interesting discussion. The effect of 

 contrary tides, meeting as they do in this country about 

 Dover, point out unmistakably the reason that Welling- 

 ton Channel remains sealed at the very moment that 

 nature appears to promise its free navigation. 



One only question remains in mystery, that is the final 

 report as to the fate of the gallant Sir John Franklin and 

 his companions. I have treated that with the same con- 

 fidence which induced me to assert, in August, 1852, 

 " that he never passed northerly or westerly of Beechey 

 Island ;" and, until positive intelligence to the contrary 



