118 MEET THE WHALERS, Chap. VII. 



the hole in wliicli the kayalcer sits, so that no 

 water can enter. It is wonderful to see how 

 closely a man can assimilate his habits to those 

 of a fish. 



The Danish cooper in charge of this out- 

 station tells us there are thirteen English 

 whalers already out, and some of them have 

 been up to the north end of Disco ; two vessels 

 are in sight. The world, it appears, is at peace. 

 Petersen was at one time in charge of this 

 station ; he is now seeking out his old ac- 

 quaintances. 



lAth. — Summer has suddenly burst upon us — 

 thermometer up to 40° ; moreover, we are en- 

 joying English newspapers, and have dined off 

 roast beef and vegetables ! 



Two days ago I sent a note off to a whaler 

 by a kayak, requesting her captain to lend me 

 some newspapers; the note reached Captain J. 

 Walker of the ' Jane,' and yesterday his ship, 

 accompanied by the ' Heroine,' Captain J. 

 Simpson, approached us, and they both came in 

 to call upon me, each of them bringing the very 

 acceptable present of some newspapers, besides 

 a quarter of beef, with vegetables. Nothing 

 could exceed their sincere good feeling and 

 kindness ; they offered to supply me with any- 

 thing their ships could afford. The account 



