64 THE VOYAGE OF THE JE ANNETTE. 



all confer and work together, comparing notes, one with the 

 other. We are all working for a common good, the success of 

 the expedition, and we must not stand on a little ceremony." 



Passed Assistant Eno-ineer Georg-e W. Melville was 

 the chief engineer. He had been a comrade of Cap- 

 tain De Long's on the Lancaster, and was his first 

 choice for the position which he filled. So highly was 

 he regarded in the navy, that the Department was very 

 reluctant to attach him to the Jeannette, from a sense 

 of the extreme difficulty of supplying his place during 



GEORGE W. MELVILLE, CHIEF ENGINEER U. S. N. 



his absence. The surgeon was Passed Assistant Sur- 

 geon James M. Ambler. This post was one of great 

 importance, and the duty of filling it suitably caused 

 Captain De Long great concern. He was unwearied 

 in his efforts to secure an officer who should com- 

 bine the necessary qualifications, and at one time was 

 strongly moved to invite two surgeons. Something of 

 his concern, and something also of his appreciation, of 

 Dr. Ambler's high qualities may be seen from a letter 

 which he addressed to an applicant for the position in 

 explanation of his course of action : — 



