APPENDIX. 491 



U. S. Ship Vincennes, 



At Sea, January 31st, 1840. 



Sir, 



In reply to your communication of this date, addressed to the 

 ward-room officers of this ship, I would state, that I think that it 

 would be advisable to remain in this vicinity at least two days longer, 

 and, if possible, get farther information respecting the recently dis- 

 covered land. At the expiration of the above mentioned time, if the 

 stormy weather we have experienced should continue, or the number 

 of sick be increased, I think it would be expedient to bear up to the 

 northward. In expressing this opinion, I am sensible of the hardship 

 and danger to which the officers and men are exposed, but I am also 

 prepared to share the same with them in any manner you may 

 dictate. 



Respectfully, yours, 



(Signed) Jared Elliott. 



Charles Wilkes, Esq., 



Commanding Exploring Expedition. 



