NINE MONTHS IN THE ARCTIC. 45 



nor anchored, and therefore a lawful prize. Many- 

 dead whales are found by ships in course of the 

 season, and especially when ice is prevalent. 

 They are struck by different boats, and if in the 

 vicinity of ice, they will surely make for it, and 

 go under it or among it ; under these circum- 

 stances the lines must be cut. After some time, 

 the badly wounded whales die, and are picked up 

 as before stated. 



We passed between St. Lawrence Island and 

 the main land, or Indian Point. The huts of the 

 natives were plainly seen from the ship's deck ; 

 still working our way towards the straits. At 

 this time, we were in company with the ship 

 Montezuma, Captain Tower, and the ship Al- 

 mira, Captain Jenks. Whales were seen going 

 towards the north, as it is usual for them to do so 

 at this season of the year. 



We anchored in St. Lawrence Bay ; weather 

 foggy. The natives came off to trade, and 

 brought their accustomed articles for traffic, such 

 as deer and walrus skins, furs, teeth, &c. They 

 take in exchange needles, fancy articles, tobac- 

 co, &c. 



After a few days, the fog having cleared away 

 somewhat, we stood towards the north again ; 

 heard guns ; saw whales ; still in company with 

 afore-mentioned ships; blowing heavy; all the 



