THE ARCTIC SEAS. 158 
usually reach the scene of their enterprise. Arrived 
within the limits of constant day, an unceasing watch 
is kept for Whales, by an officer stationed in a snug 
sort of pulpit, called the crow’s-nest, made of hoops 
and canvas, and well secured at the main-topmast 
head. The boats, which combine strength and light- 
ness, are always kept hanging over the sides and 
quarters of the ship, ready furnished for pursuit, so 
that on the appearance of a Whale being announced 
from aloft, one or more boats can be despatched in 
less than a minute. Each boat carries a harpooner, 
whose station is in the bow, a steersman, and several 
rowers. In an open space in the bow of the boat 
is placed a line sometimes more than 4000 feet in 
‘length, coiled up with beautiful regularity and scru- 
pulous care. The end of this is fastened to the 
harpoon, a most important weapon, made of the 
toughest iron, somewhat in the form of an anchor, 
but brought to an edge and point. Instead of steel 
being employed, as is commonly supposed, the very 
softest iron is chosen for this important implement, 
so that it may be scraped to an edge with a knife. A 
long staff is affixed to the harpoon, by which it is 
wielded. The boat is swiftly, but silently, rowed up 
to the unconscious Whale, and when within a few 
yards, the harpooner darts his weapon into its body. 
Smarting and surprised, the animal darts away into 
the depth of the ocean, but carries the harpoon 
sticking fast by the barbs, while the coiled line 
runs out with amazing velocity. A sheeve or pulley 
is provided, over which it passes; but if by accident 
it slips out of its place, the friction is so great that 
