290 
FROM EDINBURGH TO THE ANTARCTIC 
vessel as this could be chartered and fitted out with men, 
scientists, provisions, and all necessaries for a year's ex- 
ploration for about ^5000. If monetary profit was to be 
considered, 5 per cent, might be reasonably expected for 
seal skins and oil, and of course there is the chance of 
meeting Bowheads worth ^3000 a piece. One vessel, or 
two in consort, could chart the whole of the unknown 
Southern Continent. Think of this, ye rich who dream 
of knighthood and more riches ! For £10,000 this chance 
is going, cheap, I call it — a chance to write your names 
in Big Type on the maps of the world. Think of this, 
ye gentlemen of England who yacht at Cowes in ease, 
the chance is going — going ; and if you don't bid for the 
South Pole, some bold Yankee and his fair lady will be 
down there before you get under way, and then — there 
will be no new place under the sun ! 
There is a proposal at present to send a Government 
expedition — a great idea, let us all assist to promote it ! 
But if, as has happened before, Government is laggard, 
let private effort come to its place in the front. Surely 
we have wealth enough and men enough. What is 
wanted is a man to put the two together. 1 
. . . We make a party of four to-day in the ice. The 
1 If any one who reads this feels inclined to send or take such an expedition, 
I will be very glad to look out for one or two well-protected barques. I 
know of just the right sort of man for master, and a first-rate Scotch crew 
could be picked up easily. Practical young scientists of the newest school 
are waiting the chance. I have given a large estimate— a less expensive 
expedition might do great things and make profit. As this goes into print,. 
I hear a Norwegian whaler is reported to have seen a Bowhead, or right 
whale, in the Antarctic. 
