236 SCOTT'S LAST EXPEDITION [April 
my absence. Everyone paid tribute to his mechanical 
skill and expressed gratitude for the help he had given 
in adjusting instruments and generally helping forward 
the scientific work. He was entirely responsible for the 
heating, lighting, and ventilating arrangements, and as 
all these appear satisfactory he deserved much praise. 
Particulars concerning these arrangements I shall give 
later ; as a first impression it is sufficient to note that the 
warmth and lighting of the hut seemed as good as could 
be desired, whilst for our comfort the air seemed fresh 
and pure. Day had also to report some progress with 
the motor sledges, but this matter also I leave for future 
consideration. 
My attention was very naturally turned from the 
heating arrangements to the cooking stove and its cus- 
todian, Clissold. I had already heard much of the sur- 
passingly satisfactory meals which his art had produced, 
and had indeed already a first experience of them. Now 
I was introduced to the cook's corner with its range and 
ovens, its pots and pans, its side tables and well-covered 
shelves. Much was to be gathered therefrom, although 
a good meal by no means depends only on kitchen con- 
veniences. It was gratifying to learn that the stove had 
proved itself economical and the patent fuel blocks a most 
convenient and efficient substitute for coal. Save for 
the thickness of the furnace cheeks and the size of the 
oven Clissold declared himself wholly satisfied. He feared 
that the oven would prove too small to keep up a constant 
supply of bread for all hands ; nevertheless he introduced 
me to this oven with an air of pride which I soon found 
