1854.] INSTRUCTIONS. 109 



-in which he coincided and to prevent any miscon- 

 ception of my orders, which naturally would become his 

 guide, should any fatal accident have deprived that Di- 

 vision of Captain Kellett. The simplest-minded person 

 would therefore perceive that Commander Richards, only, 

 could fulfil all these duties. His instructions were as 

 follow, and those for Captain Kellett were delivered to 

 him unsealed, and intended to guide him until he met 

 with that officer. 



By CAPTAIN SIR EDWARD BELCHER, C.B., Commanding the 



Arctic Squadron. 



Having selected ycra for the very important command of the Division 

 connected with the western search from Beechey Island, 



You will repair forthwith to the ' North Star,' where Commander 

 Pnllen has been instructed to afford you not only eveiy possible assist- 

 ance in your equipment, but also to accompany and receive from you 

 his ultimate instructions, as in the enclosed packet, directed to him. 



2. You will demand in writing all stores which you may require 

 from his vessel, and he is required to man three sledges ; commanded 

 by himself, Lieutenant Cheyne, and his Mate or Second Master, or as 

 to you may appear most advisable. 



3. To Lieutenant Cheyne, independent of my special instructions to 

 him, you will give the command at Cape Hotham, or, as circumstances 

 may arise, either to him or Lieutenant May. 



The post is important, and, without any regard to seniority or rank, 

 it must be maintained by the most efficient you can select before you 

 finally quit Cape Hotham on your return. 



4. The sledge force from this ship will include six, with three from 

 the ' North Star,' amounting in all to eighty-seven men, with 4030 

 rations, the distribution of which is set forth in the accompanying 

 tables. 



5 . The period of starting from the c North Star' must be governed by 

 circumstances connected with temperature. Men who have to undergo 

 the extended travel to which your crews will be subject must not be 

 exposed to frost-bites, and I cannot perceive how they can safely take 

 the floe before the termination of the first ten days of March. 



