312 SCOTT'S LAST EXPEDITION [November 



Monday, November 6. — Camp 4. We started in the usual 

 order, arranging so that full loads should be carried if the black 

 dots to the south prove to be the motor. On arrival at these 

 we found our fears confirmed. A note from Evans stated a re- 

 currence of the old trouble. The big end of No. i cylinder 

 had cracked, the machine otherwise in good order. Evidently 

 the engines are not fitted for working in this climate, a fact 

 that should be certainly capable of correction. One thing is 

 proved; the system of propulsion is altogether satisfactory. 

 The motor party has proceeded as a manhauling party as 

 arranged. 



With their full loads the ponies did splendidly, even Jehu 

 and Chinaman with loads over 450 lbs. stepped out well and 

 have finished as fit as when they started. Atkinson and Wright 

 both think that these animals are improving. 



The better ponies made nothing of their loads, and my 

 own Snippets had over 700 lbs., sledge included. Of course, 

 the surface is greatly improved; it is that over which we came 

 well last year. We are all much cheered by this performance. 

 It shows a hardening up of ponies which have been well trained; 

 even Oates is pleased! 



As we came to camp a blizzard threatened, and we built 

 snow walls. One hour after our arrival the wind was pretty 

 strong, but there was not much snow. This state of affairs has 

 continued, but the ponies seem very comfortable. Their new 

 rugs cover them well and the sheltering walls are as high as the 

 animals, so that the wind is practically unfelt behind them. The 

 protection is a direct result of our experience of last year, and it 

 is good to feel that we reaped some reward for that disastrous 

 journey. I am writing late in the day and the wind is still 

 strong. I fear we shall not be able to go on to-night. Chris- 

 topher gave great trouble again last night — the four men had 

 great difl^iculty in getting him into his sledge; this is a nuisance 

 which I fear must be endured for some time to come. 



The temperature, —5°, is lower than I like in a blizzard. 

 It feels chilly in the tent, but the ponies don't seem to mind the 

 wind much. 



The incidence of this blizzard had certain characters worthy 

 of note : — 



Before we started from Corner Camp there was a heavy 



