OF THE POLAR SEA, 167 



on the eminence above could be distinctly seen 

 against the sky. 



The following observations v^^ere taken at this 

 encampment, latitude 67° 23' 14" N., longitude 

 116° 6' 51" W., variation 49° 46' 24" E. Ther- 

 mometer 75° at three P.M. Sultry weather. 



Augustus and Junius not having returned next 

 morning, we were more alarmed respecting them, 

 and determined on proceeding to find out the 

 cause of their detention, but it was eleven A.M. 

 before we could prevail upon the Indians to re- 

 main behind, which we wished them to do, fear- 

 ing that the Esquimaux might suspect our inten- 

 tions, if they were seen in our suite. We promised 

 to send for them when we had paved the way for 

 their reception, but Akaitcho ever ready to augur 

 misfortune, expressed his belief that our mes- 

 sengers had been killed, and that the Esquimaux 

 warned of our approach, were lying in wait for 

 us, and " although," said he, " your party may 

 be sufficiently strong to repulse any hostile 

 attack, my band is too weak when separated from 

 you to offer an effectual resistance ; and there- 

 fore we are determined to go on with you, or to 

 return t o our lands . ' ' After much argument, how- 

 ever, he yielded to our request, and agreed to 

 stay behind provided Mr. Wentzel would remain 

 with him. This gentleman was accordingly left 



