THE BACK TRACK. 
33 
witli the snow. We had no blubber, and of course no 
fire; but I knew that we could gain the brig, and that, 
after refreshing the dogs and ourselves, we could now 
assuredly reach the settlements. 
“We took the back track next morning over Be¬ 
devilled Beach upon the mid-ice floes, and reached the 
brig by 4 p. M. on Friday; since when I have been so 
stiff and scorbutic, so utterly used up, that to-day gives 
me a first return to my journal. 
“January 30, Tuesday.—My companions on board 
felt all my disappointment at bringing back no meat; 
but infinite gladness took the place of regret when 
they heard the great news of a passage through the 
hummocks. Petersen began at once to busy himself 
with his wardrobe; and an eight-day party was organ¬ 
ized almost before we turned in, to start as soon as 
the tempestuous weather subsides and the drifts settle 
down. It is four days since, but as yet we dare not 
venture out. 
. “That there is no time for delay, this health-table 
will show:— 
“ Henry Brooks: Unable any longer to go on deck: 
we carry him with difficulty from his berth to a 
cushioned locker. 
“ McGary: Less helpless; but off duty, and satu¬ 
rated with articular scurvy. 
“ Mr. Wilson: In bed. Severe purpuric blotches, 
and nodes in limbs. Cannot move. 
“ George Biley: Abed; limbs less stiff, gums better, 
unable to do duty. 
Vor,. II.—3 
