Sept. 1858. FALCONS GOOD AEGTIC FARE. 197 



become very scarce ; three seals have been shot, 

 and a bear seen. To-morrow we shall return 

 to our harbour, and endeavour to procure a few 

 more reindeer before they migrate southward. 



12th. — Yesterday we anchored within the 

 entrance of our creek, being a more convenient 

 position than up at its head. "We are already 

 m our wintering position, and, being without 

 occupation, one day seems most remarkably 

 like another ! Although the fondly cherished 

 hope of pushing farther in our ship can no 

 longer be entertained, yet as long as the season 

 continues navigable, it is our duty to be in 

 readiness to avail ourselves of any opportunity, 

 however improbable, of being able to do so. 



Once firmly frozen in, our autumn travelling 

 will commence, and afford welcome occupation. 

 Almost all on board . have guns ; ammunition 

 is supplied, and a sailor with a musket is a very 

 contented and zealous sportsman, if not always 

 a successful one ; it is a powerful incentive to 

 exercise. To-day the ramblers saw only two 

 hares, an ermine, and an owl. Some peregrine 

 falcons have lately been shot ; Petersen declares 

 they are " the best beef in the country, and the 

 young birds tender and white as chicken /" 



A few days ago a large cask of biscuit was 

 opened, and a living mouse discovered therein ! 



