600 THE VOYAGE OF THE JE ANNETTE. 



agreeable and uncomfortable day. Outside the tents 

 the wind blew in such fierce gusts that it was hard to 

 keep one's footing on the small pieces of ice left to us, 

 while the driving snow and hail made it impossible to 

 remain exposed. Inside the tents was wet and cold and 

 dreary. Packed close as we were, all moving around 

 inside was out of the question, and our feet were seem- 

 ingly freezing all the time. Beating them on our ice- 

 floor only made them ache, and using sticks as a basti- 

 nado, though making our feet tingle, hardly added to 

 our comfort. We could do nothing but sit and take 

 it, brightening up a little when hot coffee at dinner 

 and hot tea at supper thawed us somewhat. 



At seven p. m. the barometer had fallen to 29.55, 

 at 34°, and was apparently on the stand, so I hope we 

 may have a change by to-morrow morning. A pro- 

 longed delay here, unless followed by open water, would 

 be a serious thing for us. It would seem that I am not 

 to get a time sight while here, for not once have I had 

 an opportunity. 



The gale has loosened much of the rotten rock on 

 the cliff abreast our camp, and during the day frequent 

 showers of dirt and stones have fallen. Last night a 

 terrific amount shot down and threatened to bury us. 

 No. 2 tent turned out to a man, but the rest of us took 

 it quietly. In fact, after our experiences, we are pre- 

 pared for everything and surprised at nothing. 



August 5th, Friday. — Called all hands at six A. m. 

 Breakfasted at seven A. m. Wind moderating some- 

 what, apparently W. Barometer 29.57 at 34°. Tem- 

 perature 28°. The clouds seemed inclined to break 

 away, and the sun threatened to show through, but 

 though I watched carefully during the forenoon, there 

 was no chance to get a time sight, such a mist, or rain 



