Page:A Voyage of Discovery and Research in the Southern and Antarctic Regions Vol 1.djvu/402

302 deductions; and although we knew the true position of the South Magnetic Pole to be nearly in 76° instead of 66° S., yet as observations at the point indicated by M. Gauss might prove to be of more than ordinary magnetic interest, I determined to devote a few days to endeavour to approach it as nearly as possible, although, from the very late period of the season, I could not entertain the smallest hope of attaining to the spot itself; nor was it of so much importance to do so now, as both the American and French expeditions had at a more favourable period of the season made magnetic observations in its neighbourhood, concurring to show that the Magnetic Pole is situated much further south than he had supposed.

The wind was blowing so strong from the northward, with a high sea running, that we could hardly maintain our ground; we had constant snow and thick weather, but were fortunately in a space more clear of bergs and loose ice than usual, so that we felt ourselves to be in a position of comparative comfort and security, at noon we were in lat. 64° 20′ S., long. 164° 24′ E.

In the afternoon a shoal of porpoises, several white and many blue petrels and Cape pigeons were seen, as were also two whales. The snow ceased, the weather became clear, and as we approached the pack a strong blink indicated its position before dark; but we stood on through the night until 3.30, when, meeting with broad streams of ice, consisting of very heavy pieces, and many bergs,