232 THENORTHPOLE 



this load contained all essential items of supplies. But 

 I could not believe that the shore lead had remained 

 open so long. 



The morning of the 11th was clear and calm, with 

 a temperature of minus 40°, which meant that all the 

 open water was frozen over. We got under way early, 

 leaving in my igloo at this camp the following note 

 for Marvin: 



4th Camp, March 11, 1909. 



Have waited here (6) days. Can wait no longer. We are 

 short of fuel. Push on with all possible speed to overtake us. 

 Shall leave note at each camp. When near us rush light sledge 

 and note of information ahead to overhaul us. 



Expect send back Dr. & Eskimos 3 to 5 marches from here. 

 He should meet you & give you information. 



We go straight across this lead (E. S. E.) 



There has been no lateral motion of the ice during 7 days. 

 Only open and shut. Do not camp here. CROSS THE LEAD. 

 Feed full rations & speed your dogs. 



It is vital you overtake us and give us fuel. 



Leaving at 9 a.m., Thursday, Mar. 11. 



PEARY. 



P.S. On possibility you arrive too late to follow us, have 

 asked captain take general material from your bags. 



We crossed the lead without trouble, and made a 

 fair march of not less than twelve miles. This day we 

 crossed seven leads, each being from half a mile to one 

 mile in width, all covered with barely negotiable young 

 ice. At this time the various divisions, including Bart- 

 lett's, were all traveling together. 



On this march we crossed the 84th parallel. That 

 night the ice was raftering about our camp with the 



