1853.] AID SENT TO LIEUTENANT OSBORN. 377 



by sounding through our fire-hole, over depths varying 

 from six to six hundred fathoms, and making accurate 

 charts of our motions by aid of the stars and chronome- 

 ters. These are no idle whims or caprices. When that 

 moment arrives, all I pray for is, that every man may be 

 as well prepared to do his duty. 



To sum up, I intend to be prepared to take, or be 

 taken by, tlie ice, if it should so suit the will of Provi- 

 dence. Keeping in view that if such should happen 

 before the end of October, to endeavour to keep on this 

 side, and if drifted as far as Beechcy Island, attempt to 

 reach Union Bay and there cut in, or possibly be saved 

 the trouble by a nip. 



Of my mode of housing, when winter seals our posi- 

 sition, I shall deal hereafter, preparing at present the 

 important outlines, so far as our resources will admit. 



September 12. Late last evening, about five, Mr. Al- 

 lard returned, having fallen in with Lieutenant Osborn, 

 not far advanced. He had abandoned his boat, had 

 placed the weights on my dog-sledge, destroyed it, and, 

 by a note, suggested that a sledge and more provisions 

 should be sent to him. 



Dr. Lyall having volunteered, and considering him, 

 for many good reasons, the most effective aid as well as 

 companion, I again sent my own sledge, which carried 

 the ' Hamilton' last season ; and if so laden, would then 

 have sixteen persons to take her through her difficulties, 

 witli instructions " to accompany Lieutenant Osborn, if 

 necessary, the entire distance ;" and keeping in view the 

 peril incurred last season, and the misfortune, but too ap- 

 parent, of recent date, instructed him to inform Lieute- 



