208 
LETTERS FROM HIGH LATITUDES. 
canvas. A couple of reefs were hauled down in the 
mainsail and staysail, and every preparation made for 
making sail. 
“ Is all clear for’ard for slipping, Mr. Wyse? ” 
“ Ay, ay, Sir ; all clear! ” 
“ Let go the tow-ropes ! ” 
“All gone, Sir!” 
And down went the heavy hawsers into the sea, up 
fluttered the staysail,—then—poising for a moment on 
the waves with the startled hesitation of a bird sud¬ 
denly set free,—the little creature spread her wings, 
thrice dipped her ensign in token of adieu—receiving 
in return a hearty cheer from the French crew—and 
glided like a phantom into the north, while the “ Heine 
Hortense ” puffed back to Iceland. 1 
1 It subsequently appeared that the “ Saxon,” on the second day 
after leaving Onunder Fiord, had unfortunately knocked a hole in her 
bottom against the ice, and was obliged to run ashore in a sinking 
state. In consequence of never having been rejoined by her 
tender, the “ Reine Hortense ” fomid herself short of coals, and as 
the encumbered state of the sea rendered it already very unlikely 
that any access woidd be found open to the island, M. de la 
Honciere very properly judged it advisable to turn back. He 
re-entered Reykjavik harbour without so much as a shovelful of coals 
left on board. 
