CHAP. VI.] SHIP BURSTS HER BONDS. 393 



no doubt to have a quiet lounge in the sunshine. 

 This, however, the keenness of our sportsmen 

 would not permit; and though they failed in their 

 benevolent intentions, they effectually frightened 

 the visitors away. 



The light air from the westward had been so 

 far beneficial as to loosen the ice, which was 

 tranquil or in motion according to the tide, and 

 whilst in motion several calves rose up from 

 about and under the fore-foot. Early on July 

 11th Salisbury Island bore W.N.W. seven or 

 eight leagues distant. The ice now acquired a 

 more rapid drift ; and an old floe piece, having 

 been driven against us, forced up some light ice 

 by its pressure, but without breaking a morsel of 

 our impregnable rock. The crew had resumed 

 their customary labour ; and, as they drew nearer 

 to the stern-post, various noises and crackings 

 beneath them plainly hinted that something 

 more than usual was in progress. After breakfast 

 I visited them, and the other parties, who were 

 busy extricating calves and cutting a trench, as 

 previously stated. Scarcely had I taken a few 

 turns on deck and descended to my cabin, when 

 a loud rumbling notified that the ship had 

 broken her icy bonds and was sliding gently 

 down into her own element. I ran instantly 

 on deck, and joined in the cheers of the offi- 

 cers and men, who, dispersed on different pieces 



