OF A NORTH-WEST PASSAGE. 81 



shallow channel, making the land which intervened between the ships an island J^^^l 

 about a quarter of a mile in length. 



We had now once more approached a part of the coast of which the thorough 

 and satisfactory examination could not possibly be cariied on in the ships, 

 without incurring constant and perhaps useless risk, and a certain and serious 

 loss of time. I determined therefore to proceed at once upon this service in 

 two boats, one from each ship. Having communicated my intentions to 

 Captain Lyon, and requested him to move the ships when practicable into 

 some more secure situation, I left the Fury, accompanied by Mr. Ross and 

 Mr. Sherer, taking with us our tents, blankets, and stove, together with four 

 days' provisions and fuel. 



M 



