566 
VOYAGE TO THE 
CHAP, and it is evident that it cannot be otherwise, until the obstructions set 
forth in Captain Parry’s voyage are removed, as it would avail little 
^Oct. to be able to reach Hecla and Fury Strait, provided that channel were 
always impassable. 
From what has been set forth in the foregoing narrative of our pro- 
ceedings, it is nearly certain that, by watching the opportunity, a vessel 
may reach Point Barrow, and in all probability proceed beyond it. Had 
we been permitted to make this attempt, we should no doubt be able to 
speak more positively upon this subject ; and, as I have always been of 
opinion that a navigation may be performed along any coast of the Polar 
Sea that is conthmous, I can see no insurmountable obstacle to the exploit. 
In this attempt, however, it is evident that a vessel must be prepared to 
encounter very heavy pressure from the ice, and must expect, on the 
ice closing the coast to the westward of Point Barrow, which it un- 
questionably would with every strong westerly wind, to be driven on 
shore in the manner in which our boat was in 1826. 
As regards the question, whether it be advisable to attempt the 
passage from the Atlantic or the Pacific, the advantage of being able to 
pursue the main land with certainty from Icy Cape is unquestionably 
great ; and the recollection that in that route every foot gained to the 
eastward is an advance toward the point whence supplies and succour 
may be obtained, is a cheering prospect to those who are engaged in 
such an expedition. But while I so far advocate an attempt from this 
quarter, it must not be overlooked that the length of the voyage round 
Cape Horn, and the vicissitudes of climate to be endured, present ma- 
terial objections to prosecuting the enterprise by that course. 
It does not appear that any preference can be given to the western 
route from prevailing winds or currents, as both are so variable and un- 
certain, that no dependence can be placed upon them. In 1826, easterly 
winds prevailed almost throughout the summer, both on the northern 
coast of America, and in the open sea to the westward of Icy Cape : 
while in 1827, in the latter situation at least, the reverse took place. 
And as the coincidence of winds experienced by Captain Franklin and 
ourselves in 1826 is very remarkable, there is every probability that 
the same winds prevailed to the eastward of Point Barrow. 
