ON A NORTH-WEST PASSAGE. 285 



which empty themselves into the Icy Ocean, and are there, 

 in consequence of the centrifugal action of the globe, 

 forced to continue their motion, seeking an exit by the 

 three openings which surround the Pole, in its progress, 

 carries along the bergs and broken ice, and either deposits 

 them partially in the creeks and bays, or urges them to 

 seek a passage along with its course. The waters thus 

 cleared afford a free passage for navigation, and as Hearn 

 saw a portion of this very sea clear and navigable, so, I 

 trust, will the persons embarked in the present expedition 

 merit to be congratulated on their return for having traced 

 out the whole of the Arctic shores of North America without 

 danger or obstruction. 



The north-easterly winds impel the broken ice towards 

 those shores, and will demand the utmost vigilance to 

 guard against such destructive company in case of con- 

 trary winds. The prudence and caution of the mariner 

 are in every instance praiseworthy ; but, in the present 

 instance, I may be indulged in directing his attention 

 most earnestly to the form and character of the clouds, 

 and such other matters as are contained in my Journal. 

 Previous experience or superior information may render 

 this admonition superfluous ; but, even if it be so, I have 

 much satisfaction in being able to communicate so much 

 as I have done. However, assuming to myself the credit 

 of faithfully representing those facts which have come 



