OF THE POLAR SEA. 353 
in the event of success we should have ascertain- 
ed whether the sea was clear of ice, and na- 
vigable for canoes ; have learned the disposition 
of the Esquimaux ; and might have obtained 
other information that would have had great in- 
fluence on our future proceedings. _ 
I must confess, however, that my opinion of 
the probability of our being able to attain so great 
a desideratum this season had been somewhat 
altered by the recent changes in the weather, al- 
though, had the chief been willing to accom- 
pany us with his party, I should have made the 
attempt ; with the intention, however, of return- 
_ ing immediately upon the first decided appear- 
ance of winter. 
On the morning of August 27th, having com- 
municated my sentiments to the officers, on the 
subject of the conference last evening, they all 
agreed that the descent to the sea this season 
could not be attempted, without hazarding a com- 
plete rupture with the Indians ; but they thought 
that a party should be sent to ascertain the dis- 
tance and size of the Copper-Mine River. These 
opinions being in conformity with my own, I de- 
termined on despatching Messrs. Back and Hood 
on that'service, in a light canoe, as soon as pos- 
sible. 
We witnessed this morning an instance of the 
: 2A 
oL. I. 
