THE ARCTIC SEAS. 153 



usually reach the scene of their enterprise. Arrived 

 within the limits of constant day, an unceasing watch 

 is kept for Whales, by an officer stationed in a snug 

 sort of pulpit, called the crow's-nest, made of hoops 

 and canvas, and well secured at the main-topmast 

 head. The boats, which combine strength and light- 

 ness, are always kept hanging over the sides and 

 quarters of the ship, ready furnished for pursuit, so 

 that on the appearance of a Whale being announced 

 from aloft, one or more boats can be despatched in 

 less than a minute. Each boat carries a harpooner, 

 whose station is in the bow, a steersman, and several 

 rowers. In an open space in the bow of the boat 

 is placed a line sometimes more than 4000 feet in 

 length, coiled up with beautiful regularity and scru- 

 pulous care. The end of this is fastened to the 

 harpoon, a most important weapon, made of the 

 toughest iron, somewhat in the form of an anchor, 

 but brought to an edge and point. Instead of steel 

 being employed, as is commonly supposed, the very 

 softest iron is chosen for this important implement, 

 so that it may be scraped to an edge with a knife. A 

 long staff is affixed to the harpoon, by which it is 

 wielded. The boat is swiftly, but silently, rowed up 

 to the unconscious Whale, and when within a few 

 yards, the harpooner darts his weapon into its body. 

 Smarting and surprised, the animal darts away into 

 the depth of the ocean, but carries the harpoon 

 sticking fast by the barbs, while the coiled line 

 runs out with amazing velocity. A sheeve or pulley 

 is provided, over which it passes; but if by accident 

 it slips out of its place, the friction is so great that 



