APPENDIX. 413 
islands which you may fall in with be ascertained, with their general 
character and productions, if any ; specimens of rocks and sketches 
of their stratification will, if possible, be taken. The islands of ice 
frequently show appearances of stratification, with earth and rocks 
attached to them. Any thing gained from them will be interesting 
and valuable, with a particular notice whether the ice had been much 
worn away under them. 
12th. The aurora australis has not been often seen ; it is said to 
have been seen by Captain Cook near his Ne Plus Ultra, where you 
will commence. You will notice the extent and height of the ice, 
&c, and sketch, if possible, any remarkable refraction, with a descrip- 
tion which will render it clear. 
13th. You will note the observations of the thermometer in the sun 
and shade ; also the temperature of the sea at such depths as you may 
judge best, with the sounding apparatus sent you. 
14th. After having run to Palmer's Land, and not finding an 
opening or land, you will return to this harbour direct, where you 
will find this ship; and you will despatch the Flying-Fish to the 
harbour of Deception Island for information from me, which will, 
if possible, be left in a bottle enclosed in a heap of stones (a sailor's 
grave), on the right-hand side of that harbour, the entrance being at 
the east ; and you will direct the officer in charge of the Flying-Fish 
to remain there, if he should hear nothing of me, as long as possible, 
even until the 1st of May, when she will proceed with all despatch to 
this port. 
15th. Should you be shut up or detained by ice, which, of course, 
you will avoid by all possible means, you will, if possible, communi- 
cate to me at Deception Island, as in case you are out of time, you 
may rely on my sending there to hear from you, and afford any aid, 
as soon as the season will permit, to which place your boats or the 
tender can be navigated. It is my present intention, after surveying 
the southeast shore of Palmer's Land, to touch at Deception Island on 
my return north, and obtain or leave information as to our progress, 
in a bottle, as above described. 
16th. You will, of course, give the most particular attention to the 
health and comfort of the officers and crews of your command, and 
the most economical expenditure of stores and provisions, of which 
you have as much as you can stow, including a large supply of 
antiscorbutics, preserved meats, &c. 
vol. i. 104 
