228 INLAND EXCURSION. [March, 



mentarily in intensity. The distance we had travelled on 

 ice was estimated at ten miles : I notice by the plan 

 that it was fourteen. 



March 26. Temperature 7. Our night in the 

 tent, being the first of the season, notwithstanding the 

 temperature did not fall below 7, and calm, was much 

 complained of by all; and when a bright morning af- 

 forded hopes of comfortable exercise at this temperature 

 " over the hills and far away," it was unfortunately ac- 

 companied by a troublesome fresh breeze from south- 

 east. It is not to be understood that temperature here 

 is concerned, because 10 is the approved degree for 

 travelling is pleasant, to our feelings balmy ; but a cut- 

 ting south-east wind, charged with fine drift, on the 

 mountain-top, breathing heavily, is no pleasant " barber." 

 As we surmounted the hill-difficulties we were surprised 

 to find around us gently undulating surfaces, at times so 

 perplexing in the distance as to confuse the senses, and 

 cause one to deem them floe (or what would be level 

 sea). Frequently did I observe, " Well, there at least is 

 good floe to travel on ;" but very shortly this vision was 

 dispelled by the intrusion of some headland presenting a 

 very much lower level. Upwards of four hours we con- 

 tinued to advance to the north-east, gradually ascending 

 in the hope of catching some glimpse of the North Sea. 

 Glimpses of the horizon I certainly obtained at times, 

 through long lines of distant ravines ; but the northern 

 mountains, added to the great haze, put an end to all 

 hopes of any proximity to the northern water. Select- 

 ing therefore the nearest eminence, with regard also to 

 building materials, a conspicuous cairn was constructed, 



