tgti] THE SECOND MOTOR FAILS 453 
note from Evans stated a recurrence of the old trouble. 
The big end of No. 1 cylinder had cracked, the machine 
otherwise in good order. Evidently the engines are not 
fitted for working in this climate, a fact that should be 
certainly capable of correction. One thing is proved ; 
the system of propulsion is altogether satisfactory. The 
motor party has proceeded as a manhauling party as 
arranged. 
With their full loads the ponies did splendidly, even 
Jehu and Chinaman with loads over 450 lbs. stepped out 
well and have finished as fit as when they started. 
Atkinson and Wright both think that these animals are 
improving. 
The better ponies made nothing of their loads, and 
my own Snippets had over 700 lbs., sledge included. 
Of course, the surface is greatly improved ; it is that 
over which we came well last year. We are all much 
cheered by this performance. It shows a hardening up 
of ponies which have been well trained ; even Oatcs 
is pleased ! 
As we came to camp a blizzard threatened, and we 
built snow walls. One hour after our arrival the wind 
was pretty strong, but there was not much snow. This 
state of affairs has continued, but the ponies seem very 
comfortable. Their new rugs cover them well and the 
sheltering walls are as high as the animals, so that the 
wind is practically unfelt behind them. The protection 
is a direct result of our experience of last year, and it is 
good to feel that we reaped some reward for that disastrous 
journey. I am writing late in the day and the wind is 
