61 AMUSE3IENTS AND EXCURSIONS. 



As amusements were at this time the order of the 

 day, a greasy pole was erected upon the ice, sur- 

 mounted by a bottle of rum — a challenge to all 

 comers — and fine fun it created ; nor was it until 

 late in the day that one of our men bore off the 

 prize in triumph. We ended 1848 by ringing out 

 his venerable majesty, and ushered in the infant heir 

 with a joyous peal. 



One or two excursions had been undertaken during 

 December; but it was not till 1849 had commenced 

 that they assumed a place in our regular pursuits. 

 It took some time to establish om^selves firmly with 

 our new friends, and to enable us to feel quite secure 

 among them when removed from the protection of 

 our ship and her resources. Hitherto, also, our 

 imperfect acquaintance with the language formed an 

 impediment; but now that the way to a more 

 extended and less guarded intercourse was opened, 

 many very interesting trips were made. The ones I 

 was myself engaged upon I shall mention in their 

 order ; and these cover, with little intermission, the 

 period from January until May. 



On the 8th of January, whether by accident or 

 design, I cannot say, we were invaded by an influx of 

 distinguished visitors. The first who arrived was the 

 Chief of Oongwysac, Teo, his daughters Meeco and 



