192 A VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY 
are yet entertained whether those in question are 
not old tracks. For my own part, I consider it quite 
unnecessary to offer an opinion on the subject, for 
if they are fresh tracks, it is more than probable 
that in a very short time we shall have unequivocal 
proofs of the return of the deer. The weather has 
been very mild for these two days, though the ther- 
mometer in the shade has not been above 20°, but 
it is above the freezing point in the sun every day 
in places that are sheltered from the north wind, 
and having a southerly aspect. As soon as the 
weather is likely to become permanently fine, I un- 
derstand that it is intended that a party should go 
over land to the northward, to ascertain, if possible, 
the breadth of this island, and to see what state the 
sea is in to. the northward, as well as to make 
such other remarks as they may be able. | For the 
greater convenience of carrying the provisions, 
tents, and other needful baggage, a light cart is 
making, which the men are to draw. The 
tents (two in number) are made of blankets, and 
are to be set up on boarding pikes, which, in case 
of its being necessary to make defence against any 
animal, will be found useful weapons. The pro- 
visions are packed in such a way that, in the event 
of the cart breaking down, or its being for any 
other reason abandoned, they may carry them on 
their backs. I shall forbear saying any more 
about the subject at present, as I expect a few 
days will enable me to give a full account of the 
equipment, &c. of the party. 
Wednesday, 17th. — Several of the people who 
have been out on excursions at different times dur- 
