i9i2] THE GRIP OF COLD 581 
Land disappearing in satisfactory manner. Pray God we 
have no further set-backs. We are naturally always 
discussing possibility of meeting dogs, where and when, &c. 
It is a critical position. Wc may find ourselves in safety 
at next depot, but there is a horrid clement of doubt. 
Camp R. 41. Temp. -32 0 . Still fine clear weather 
but very cold — absolutely calm to-night. We have got 
off an excellent march for these days (i2"2) and are 
much earlier than usual in our bags. 31 miles to depot, 
3 days' fuel at a pinch, and 6 days' food. Things begin to 
look a little better ; we can open out a little on food from 
to-morrow night, I think. 
Very curious surface — soft recent sastrugi which sink 
underfoot, and between, a sort of flaky crust with large 
crystals beneath. 
Tuesday, February 28. — Lunch. Thermometer went 
below -40 0 last night; it was desperately cold for us, 
but we had a fair night. I decided to slightly increase 
food ; the effect is undoubtedly good. Started marching 
in -32 0 with a slight north-westerly breeze — blighting. 
Many cold feet this morning ; long time over foot gear, 
but we are earlier. Shall camp earlier and get the 
chance of a good night, if not the reality. Things must 
be critical till we reach the depot, and the more I think 
of matters, the more I anticipate their remaining so after 
that event. Only 24I miles from the depot. The sun 
shines brightly, but there is little warmth in it. There is no 
doubt the middle of the Barrier is a pretty awful locality. 
Camp 42. Splendid pony hoosli sent us to bed and 
sleep happily after a horrid day, wind continuing; did 
