642 
LAST VOYAGE OF CAPT. ROSS. 
boats, the ice was making off from the shore, so that orders were 
given to make a move, when the boats were got down as far 
as Boot Bight, when a party went on one of the hills, to take a 
survey of the state of the ice; but there was a supineness, at this 
time, in the conduct of Capt. Ross, which excited the astonish¬ 
ment of the whole of the crew, and led them to believe that no 
disposition existed on his part, to take advantage of any favor¬ 
able occurrence, that might present itself. At this time there 
was a very fine opening, but Capt. Ross did not seem willing to 
embrace it, until every one of the crew cried out, that it was 
shameful to see such an opening, and to let it pass, without 
taking the advantage of it. 
After some time was spent in unprofitable procrastination, a 
move was made from Boot Bight, and they got down on the 
other side of Batty Bay; but, in the crossing of that bay, a 
strong breeze sprung up, from which, Capt Ross’ boat, on 
account of its being so heavily laden, and at the same time 
carrying so much sail, took the sea in at such a rate, that it was 
reported by Thomas, the carpenter, that the boat was half full 
of water ; and at the same time that it was so lumbered up, that 
it was not possible to bail her out. The foresail was hauled 
down, which eased her a little, and a place was made, both fore 
and aft, for the purpose of bailing, the water being up to the 
knees. The other two boats hove to, and when all was right 
in Capt. Ross’ boat, they ran in for some low land, that was seen 
to the southward ; but it coming on to be very dark and dismal, 
and the wind blowing tremendously hard, they landed on a 
beach, and pitched their tents, leaving the boats at anchor. 
On the following morning, some of the lumber was got off 
Capt. Ross’ boat, viz. some spare shot, fifty fathom of whale line, 
that had been used for a cable, and a cask of tamarinds. This, 
however, did not make much difference in the draught of the 
boat in the water: and it was expected by the crew, that Capt. 
Ross would leave behind him some large chests, the weight of 
one of which, was not less than six or seven hundred weight; 
as well as another chest, that was on the beach, containing mi¬ 
neral specimens, also, a carpenter’s tool chest, as well as several 
