1853.] 



RIG OF SLEDGES. 



229 



seven feet high by nine feet in diameter at base, and of 

 such substantial stones as will last more than a season. 

 My own impression was that I saw some point or island 

 through the valley. Time did not admit of further pro- 

 gress, and that securing return before dark now became 

 important. The cairn which we had constructed afforded 

 some little shelter from the cutting breeze, and under 

 this we lunched. Cold meat, of course, and a cutting 

 cold atmosphere, for the temperature had fallen, and 

 our men were feeling it aloud. Between the snow-dust 

 clouds I could now and then distinguish certain objects, 

 which satisfied rue that I had reached the hill which I 

 had contemplated from the Observatory. Our packing 

 up, and forward, or return movement, was rapid; so 

 much so, that when I found myself at the tent, I re- 

 solved on seeking a more convenient shelter for the night. 



We therefore packed up, and started under canvas. Our 

 craft was rigged in the most approved Sooloo pirate 

 style : sheer masts stepped into a specially fitted batten, 

 forming an isosceles triangle, with the means of support 



