GEOGRAPHICAL NOTES. 119 
crews, you will afford such succor or assistance within your power as may be re- 
quired. Should any persons desire to send contributions of provisions, etc., for 
the relief of those whalers, you will receive the same and dispose of them in 
such manner as circumstances may require. 
You are further instructed while in the Arctic to make careful inquiries re- 
garding the progress and whereabouts of the steamer Jeannette, engaged in mak- 
ing explorations under the command of Lieutenant Commander De Long, 
United States Navy, and you will, if practicable, communicate with and extend 
any needed assistance to that vessel. 
Should you be able to accomplish your mission in the Arctic Ocean early in 
the season, or find it necessary in carrying out these instructions to return to the 
seal islands before the usual time (say October 10) for the return of the revenue 
steamer from those waters, you will make a cruise to the westward from Ouna- 
laska as far as Atton, with the general object of protecting the seal otter hunting 
grounds and breaking up the business of illicit traders who frequent those waters. 
You are, however, permitted in your discretion to remain in the Arctic Ocean as 
late in the season as may be, necessary to accomplish the object of your voyage 
without encountering undue hazard to your command. 
A rumor of the wholesale starvation of the inhabitants of St. Lawrence 
Island, in Behring Sea, is noticed by Captain Bailey in his report of last year. 
You will investigate the facts regarding the matter if opportunity offers, and 
will, if practicable, land upon that island and ascertain the number and real con- 
dition of said people. 
While cruising in the Arctic Sea you will make careful observations as to 
currents, tides, etc., and will keep an accurate record of such soundings, sur- 
_ veys, etc., as you may be able to make, and you will obtain such information as 
Oe eae 
may be practicable regarding the numbers, character, occupations and general 
condition of the inhabitants of the adjacent coasts. 
Previous to sailing from San Francisco you will forward to the department 
a muster and descriptive roll of the officers and men of your command. 
You will whenever opportunity presents transmit to the department reports 
of the progress of your cruise. ‘i 
In conclusion, the department, having defined the general objects of your 
‘voyage and relying upon your skill and good judgment, confides to your discre- 
tion the details of your cruising within the Arctic Ocean, and takes pleasure in 
wishing you a prosperous voyage and a safe return. Very respectfully, | 
JOHN SHERMAN, Secretary. 
AWARD OF THE ROYAL MEDALS OF THIS YEAR. 
The Royal medals or premiums intrusted to the Society by the Crown ‘‘ for 
the encouragement and promotion of geographical science and discovery,’’ have 
this year been awarded as follows: 
