WHITE WHALES. 71 



going on to unhang the rudder, which, in the 

 event of the ship's coming astern, must have 

 struck the floe and been carried away. 



Until past 1 a. m. (August 27th), we remained 

 in suspense, which was then relieved by the ice 

 returning again to its former position, and giving 

 us an opportunity to warp closer to the floe. An 

 attempt was made to remove some of the smaller 

 masses from between the ship and the floe ; but 

 notwithstanding repeated trials with all the re- 

 sources in our power, we were completely baffled. 

 Strange too at this late season, the breeze once 

 more came from the south-east, though the 

 height of the barometer indicated a totally differ- 

 ent result ; and there was no hope for us until 

 the faithless wind should round to the north- 

 west. During the whole of the day and follow- 

 ing night, the breeze blew freshly. Four white 

 whales were seen playing about sunset in a pool 

 ahead, and remained undeterred by our cries, 

 apparently enjoying the only breathing place for 

 many a league around. In the night there was 

 a great pressure against the bows, and a severe 

 strain upon the hawsers. In the morning of 

 August 28th this abated, but in its stead the 

 entire body became more closely packed than 

 ever ; and the ship, having to bear a great re- 

 sistance from the upturned pieces against her 



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