OLD WHALING DAYS. 157 



scenery, but no civilised person has been there. I had a 

 splendid view from the summit of a mountain on which I 

 climbed to ascertain the state of the ice to the northward. 

 Inland there is a large sheet of water extending far to the 

 southward, but I could not say whether there is any outlet, 

 as it has not been explored. In many parts of this country 

 what is supposed to be the mainland often turns out to be a 

 large island. The way up the mountain is most difficult 

 and dangerous very rugged, and has all the appearance of 

 volcanic origin. It appeared to me that the S.E. side had 

 burst open, and thrown the fragments of rock on either side. 



The s.s. Narwhal steamed out, and left us alone. We 

 remained until the young ice prevented us from pulling the 

 boats, and a great quantity of ice drifting along the land, we 

 weighed anchor and steamed outside. During the last few 

 days many whales were seen, but it was impossible to get 

 near them. 



We were the last vessel north. Some had gone to Cum- 

 berland Gulf. Once clear of the ice, we set our sails to a fresh 

 northerly wind, homeward bound. In due time we arrived 

 safely in Lerwick, discharged our men, and under steam and 

 canvas soon sighted the Bell Rock, and entered the river 

 Tay. We were not long in getting into the dock, and 

 we began to discharge the next day. Thus ended a most 

 pleasant voyage. 



