WHALE-FISHERY. 201 



At length, when fourteen lines (about 1680 fathoms) 

 were drawn from the fourth fast-boat, a slight en- 

 tanglement of the line broke it at the stem. The 

 fish then again made its escape, taking along with 

 it a boat and twenty-eight lines. The united length 

 of the lines was 67^0 yards, or upwards of 3| En- 

 glish miles; value, with the boat, above 150 pounds 

 sterling. 



The obstruction of the sunken boat, to the pro- 

 gress of the fish, must have been immense; and that 

 of the lines likewise considerable; the weight of the 

 lines alone, being 35 hundred weight. 



So long as the fourth fast-boat, through the me- 

 dium of its lines, retained its hold of the fish, we 

 searched the adjoining sea with the ship in vain; 

 but, in a short time after the line was divided, we 

 got sight of the object of pursuit, at the distance of 

 near two miles to the eastward of the ice and boats, 

 in the open sea. One boat only with lines, and 

 two empty boats, were reserved by the ship. Hav- 

 ing, however, fortunately fine weather, and a fresh 

 breeze of wind, we immediately gave chase under 

 all sails; though, it must be confessed, with the in- 

 significant force by us, the distance of the fish, and 

 the rapidity of its flight considered, we had but 

 very small hopes of success. At length, after pur- 

 suing it five or six miles, being at least nine miles 

 from the place where it was struck, we came up 

 with it, and it seemed inclined to rest after its ex- 

 traordinary exertions. The two dismantled or 



Vol. III. 26 



