OF THE POLAR SEA. 3U 



in a well-known part raised the spirits of the men 

 to a high pitch, and we kept up a cheerful con- 

 versation until sleep overpowered us. The night 

 was very stormy, and the morning scarcely less 

 so ; but, being desirous to reach the house to- 

 day, we commenced our journey very early. We 

 were gratified by the sight of a large herd of rein- 

 deer on the side of the hill near the track, but 

 our only hunter, Adam, was too feeble to pursue 

 them. Our shoes and garments were stiffened 

 by the frost, and we walked in great pain until 

 we arrived at some stunted pines, at which we 

 halted, made a good fire, and procured the re- 

 freshment of tea. The weather becoming fine in 

 the afternoon, we continued our journey, passed 

 the Dog-rib Rock, and encamped among a clump 

 of pines of considerable growth, about a mile 

 further on. Here we enjoyed the comfort of a 

 large fire for the first time since our departure 

 from the sea-coast ; but this gratification was 

 purchased at the expense of many severe falls 

 that we had in crossing a stony valley, to get to 

 these pines. There was no tripe de roche, and 

 we drank tea and ate some of our shoes for 

 supper. Next morning after taking the usual 

 repast of tea, we proceeded to the house. Musing 

 on what we were likely to find there, our minds 

 were agitated between hope and fear, and, con- 



