330 
APPENDIX NO. IV. 
received on board at Lievely, where they had arrived several days 
previous, having deserted their brig in Smith’s Sound, about thirty 
miles to the northward and eastward of the farthest point reached by 
us, and, by unprecedented energy and determination, made their way 
down in boats and sledges. 
In five days after my last communication to the Department (a copy 
of which, as well as of all others since leaving, are herewith enclosed) 
we succeeded in “boring" a passage through the middle “pack” of 
Baffin’s Bay, and in reaching Lievely, where we were detained until 
the 18th ultimo, coaling, watering, and preparing to receive our in¬ 
creased numbers. Sailing on that day in company with the “Arctic,” 
we have, without any incident worthy of note, returned all in health. 
No traces whatever of Sir John Franklin or his party were dis¬ 
covered. 
Our vessels have both proved themselves all that could have been 
desired, particularly the “Arctic,” she having, in addition to her steam- 
motive power, the qualities of a good, weatlierly, moderate-sailing vessel. 
They have been pretty severely nipped and chafed by the ice, but are 
generally in good condition. 
I enclose a list of the officers, men, and crews of the “Release” and 
“Arctic,” as well as of Dr. Kane’s party. 
As the crews of both vessels were shipped with the understanding 
that they were to be discharged on the return of the expedition to the 
United States, I respectfully request authority from the Department to 
pay them off. 
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
II. J. Hartstene, 
Lieutenant commanding Arctic Expedition. 
Hon. J. C. Dobbin, 
Secretary of the Navy , Washington, D. C. 
List of the Officers and Ci'ew of the United States barque Release . 
H. J. Hartstene, lieutenant commanding. 
James Laws, acting assistant surgeon. 
Wm. S. Lovell, acting master. 
Jos. P. Fyffe, passed midshipman. 
Van R. Hall, boatswain. 
Charles Sever, captain’s clerk. 
