INTRODUCTION. 1 7 



had any niggardliness been shown. A complete outfit 

 for both ships for two Avhole years was above all things 

 a necessity, and indeed a point of honour. 



The contract for the victualling of the Germania was 

 given to D. Cordes and Co., of Bremen, and that for 

 the Hansa to H. Richers of Hamburg. Neither ship 

 carried much dried or salted meat, but a great quantity 

 of preserved meats in tins ; also a good supply of drinks, 

 which are so necessary on an Arctic voyage, besides 

 many presents of wine; and lastly, a corresponding 

 quantity of clothing for all who were taking part in the 

 expedition. Both ships had a similar allowance of 

 everything needful ; and the Berlin Committee were of 

 very great assistance in providing scientific apparatus 

 and instruments, some of the most impoi'tant of which 

 were kindly lent by various persons and institutions. 



On the 28tli of May, Captain Koldewey had an audi- 

 ence of his Majesty King William at Babelsberg. His 

 Majesty allowed Captain Koldewey to explain his plan 

 by aid of a map. He expressed his satisfaction that a 

 man had been found willing to carry out the undertaking, 

 and fixed his visit to the vessels for his future intended 

 journey to Bremen. 



The time of starting was settled for the middle of 

 June ; and from March to that time every exertion was 

 brought to bear upon the work that all might be com- 

 plete. The equipment in every respect was accomplished 

 in good time ; and when all was ready for departure, a 

 joint committee was called together to consider, at the 

 last moment, what had been accomplished, and what 

 remained to be decided on, in the case of certain even- 

 tualities. The scientific men were first greeted with the 

 warmest thanks for their courageous resolution, and the 







