480 ACCOUNT OF THE ARCTIC REGIONS. 



then exerts all its energies, and escapes with its ut- 

 most velocity ; but shows little disposition to retali- 

 ate on its enemies, or to repel their attacks by en- 

 gaging in a combat. Though at a distance, the 

 physalis is sometimes mistaken by the w^ialers for 

 the mysticetus ; yet its appearance and actions are 

 so different, that it may be generally distinguish- 

 ed. It seldom lies quietly on the surface of the wa- 

 ter when blowing, but usually has a velocity of four 

 or five miles an hour ; and when it descends, it very 

 rarely throws its tail in the air, which is a very ge- 

 neral practice with the mysticetus. 



The great speed and activity of the physalis, ren- 

 der it a difficult and dangerous object of attack ; 

 while the small quantity of inferior oil it affords, 

 makes it unworthy the general attention of the fisheis. 

 When struck, it frequently drags the fast-boat with 

 such speed througli the water, that it is liable to be 

 carried immediately beyond the reach of assistance, 

 and soon out of sight of both boats and ship. Hence, 

 the striker is under the necessity of cutting the line, 

 and sacrificing his employer's property, for securing 

 the safety of himself and companions. I have made 

 different attempts to capture one of these formidable 

 creatures. In the year 1818, I ordered a general 

 chase of them, providing against the danger of ha- 

 ving my crew separated from the ship, by appoint- 

 ing a rendezvous on the shore not far distant, and 

 preparing against the loss of much line, by dividing 



