OF THE POLAR SEA. 



127 



most kindly urged me not to make the at- 

 tempt. They were occupied the whole of 

 the next day in tearing down the logs of 

 which the store-house was built, but the 

 mud plastered between them was so hard 

 frozen that the labour of separation ex- 

 ceeded their strength, and they were com- 

 pletely exhausted by bringing in wood suf- 

 ficient for less than twelve hours' consump- 

 tion. 



I found it necessary in their absence to 

 remain constantly near Adam, and to con- 

 verse with him, in order to prevent his 

 reflecting on our condition, and to keep up 

 his spirits as far as possible. I also lay by 

 his side at night. 



On the 3d the weather was very cold, 

 though the atmosphere was cloudy. This 

 morning Hepburn was affected with swell- 

 ing in his limbs, his strength, as well as that 

 "oF the Doctor, was rapidly declining ; they 

 continued, however, to be fulloftyopeu 



Their utmost exertions could only supply 

 wood, to renew the fire thrice, and on 

 making it up the last time we went to bed. 



