122 Attempt to release Ourselves. 



on the unknown regions of the north, or from 

 whom some information may be obtained regarding 1 

 the missing " Polaris," the Esquimaux, as a general 

 rule, being of a most migratory habit. Positions 

 can be determined, and specimens in various 

 branches of science can be collected. Altogether 

 there are many attractions to draw one towards 

 this little-known land, to obtain any one of which 

 would amply repay one after the monotony of life 

 on board. 



This morning brought a very imperceptible 

 alteration in our prospects, as far as the chance of 

 getting clear was concerned. Snow was falling 

 heavily, and the wind had subsided. At about 

 noon the snow ceased, and a bright sky and warm 

 sun took its place, but not a drop of water to be 

 seen in any direction. 



The land about Cape Byam Martin extended 

 along our starboard beam, but everywhere else was 

 ice — one impassable plain of ice. We made several 

 efforts to release ourselves, but after nearly two 

 hours' steaming these were relinquished, having 

 only succeeded during that time in moving the ship 

 about half her length. 



The ice is of that brashy nature which precludes 

 all possibility of walking ; and being thickly covered 

 with snow, it would be excessively dangerous for 

 any person to venture upon it. Anyone so doing 

 would be almost certain of going through. 



