302 SCOTT'S LAST EXPEDITION [October 



advance. A small measure of success will be enough to show 

 their possibilities, their ability to revolutionise Polar transport. 

 Seeing the machines at work to-day, and remembering that every 

 defect so far shown is purely mechanical, it is impossible not 

 to be convinced of their value. But the trifling mechanical de- 

 fects and lack of experience show the risk of cutting out trials. 

 A season of experiment with a small workshop at hand may be all 

 that stands between success and failure. 



At any rate before we start we shall certainly know if the 

 worst has happened, or if some measure of success attends this 

 unique effort. 



The ponies are in fine form. Victor, practically recovered 

 from his wound, has been rushing round with a sledge at a great 

 rate. Even Jehu has been buckish, kicking up his heels and 

 gambolling awkwardly. The invalids progress, Clissold a little 

 alarmed about his back, but without cause. 



Atkinson and Keohane have turned cooks, and do the job 

 splendidly. 



This morning Meares announced his return from Corner 

 Camp, so that all stores are now out there. The run occupied 

 the same time as the first, when the routine was: first day 17 

 miles out; second day 13 out, and 13 home; early third day 

 run in. If only one could trust the dogs to keep going like this 

 it would be splendid. On the whole things look hopeful. 



1 p.m. motors reported off Razor Back Island, nearly 3 

 miles out come, come! 



Thursday, October 26. Couldn't see the motors yesterday 

 till I walked well out on the South Bay, when I discovered them 

 with glasses off the Glacier Tongue. There had been a strong 

 wind in the forenoon, but it seemed to me they ought to have 

 got further annoyingly the telephone gave no news from Hut 

 Point, evidently something was wrong. After dinner Simpson 

 and Gran started for Hut Point. 



This morning Simpson has just rung up. He says the motors 

 are in difficulties with the surface. The trouble is just that 

 which I noted as alarming on Monday the chains slip on the 

 very light snow covering of hard ice. The engines are working 

 well, and all goes well when the machines get on to snow. 



I have organised a party of eight men including myself, and 

 we are just off to see what can be done to help. 



