320 
LETTERS FROM HIGH LATITUDES. 
occupied in taking photographs. As soon as the bear 
was observed, a signal was made to him from the ship, 
to warn him of the visitor he might shortly expect 
on shore. Naturally concluding that the bear would in 
all probability make for the tent as soon as he reached 
land, it became a subject of consideration with him 
what course he should pursue. Weapons he had none, 
unless the chemicals he was using might be so regarded. 
Should he try the influence of chloroform on his enemy ; 
or launch the whole photographic apparatus at his 
grisly head, and take to his heels ? Thought is rapid, 
but the bear’s progress seemed equally expeditious; it 
was necessary to arrive at some speedy conclusion. To 
fly—was to desert his post and leave the camp in pos¬ 
session of the spoiler; life and honour were equally 
dear to him. Suddenly a bright idea struck him. 
At the time the goat had been disembarked to take 
her pleasure on terra firma , our crow’s-nest barrel had 
been landed with her. At this moment it was standing 
unoccupied by the side of the tent. By creeping into 
it, and turning its mouth downward on the ground, 
Wilson perceived that he should convert it into a tower 
of strength for himself against the enemy, while its 
