PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS. XLIX 



whereas the isotherms at the surface of the ocean stretch 

 in a general south-west to north-east direction across the South 

 Atlantic, the warm water lying towards the north-west, at a depth 

 of 400 metres, the isotherms are quite different from those on the 

 surface. 



The 400 metres isotherms show pools of relatively warm water 

 underlying colder water, and bounded equatorwards by much 

 colder water, the difference in temperature being no less than 

 27 deg. F. 



Some analogous temperature distributions have already been 

 proved between Iceland and Norway, where the relatively warm, 

 but more saline, waters of the Gulf Stream dive underneath the 

 colder, but fresher, waters coming from the Arctic Ocean. 



Gravity and magnetic observations were also obtained by this 

 expedition. There can be no doubt that the value of Captain 

 Scott's scientific observations, especially the meteorological, will 

 be greatly enhanced by the fact of simultaneous observations hav- 

 ing been taken by Amundsen. In reference to the German expe- 

 dition under Lieutenant Filchner, at present we know practically 

 nothing, but can be quite confident that in the almost wholly 

 unexplored region of the Weddell Sea Quadrant, he and his com- 

 rades will contribute to raise higher still the reputation of their 

 nation, already second to none in the world, for accuracy and 

 thoroughness in all kinds of scientific research. Next, in regard to 

 Captain Scott's expedition. While there is much subject for con- 

 gratulation, the fact cannot be concealed that the news which the 

 Terra Nova will probably bring us late in March will be looked 

 for with a keenness tinged by anxiety. There can, in my opinion, 

 be scarcely a shadow of doubt that Captain Scott and his gallant 

 band, after desperate struggles, testing the human system to its 

 utmost limit of endurance, struggles and hardships from which 

 Amundsen and his comrades, from their superior experience and 

 knowledge, were exempt, have actually reached the South Pole 

 and discovered the tent and flag, and other marks that were left 

 by Amundsen. One cannot but sympathize with the poignancy 

 of the disappointment of Scott and his party when they found, 

 after all their heroic struggles, that Tney had been anticipated. 

 But the story of their magnificent courage in the face of appalling 

 difficulties, is one which will go down as inspiration to noble effort 

 for all time.^ 



A useful summary of what promised to be the richest harvest of 

 scientific research ever gathered in the Antarctic has already been 

 given by Mr. J. H. Maiden, our general secretary, whom we all 



•* This was, of course, written before the sad news of the Polar tragedy had reached 

 Australia. The inspiration remains, but alas for the brave spirits that have passed ! 



