Page:Scott's Last Expedition, Volume 1.djvu/514

334 Taylor and Nelson left at the Razor Back Island and report all well. Simpson, Meares, and Gran continued and have not yet returned.

Gran just back on ski; left party at 5¼ miles. Says Meares and Simpson are returning on foot. Reports a bad bit of surface between Tent Island and Glacier Tongue. It was well that the party had assistance to cross this.

This winter travel is a new and bold venture, but the right men have gone to attempt it. All good luck go with them!

Bowers reports that present consumption (midwinter) = 4 blocks per day (100 lbs.). An occasional block is required for the absolute magnetic hut.

He reports 8½ tons used since landing. This is in excess of 4 blocks per day as follows:

Report August 4. Used to date = 9 tons = 20,160 lbs. Say 190 days at 106 lbs. per day. Coal remaining 20½ tons. Estimate 8 tons to return of ship. Total estimate for year, 17 tons. We should have 13 or 14 tons for next year.