r campaign had to be faced. But we may imagine the surprise of the
explorers when, as they were settling down in winter quarters, six
strangers approached, who informed Nordenskiold that their six ships had
been unexpectedly frozen in, and there were fifty-eight men in danger of
ultimate starvation!

This was most unpleasant news, for the expedition had only sufficient
for its own requirements, and such an addition to the party was a very
serious drawback. Still help was absolutely necessary, and a note was
sent to the captains of the imprisoned ships, that the explorers would
do all in their power.

But a sad blow awaited them. In another severe storm all the reindeer
got away; and, of course, a valuable supply of fresh meat, besides
transport, was cut off at one fell stroke. Only one of the reins was
recaptured, and he was wounded. Fortunately some large wild reindeer
were shot, and they made a welcome addition to the larder. At the end
of October winter began to set in severely, and the reindeer-moss was
utilised by the imprisoned people as food. The winter-time was passed
as well as possible, and interesting observations were taken. Scurvy
and pleurisy, however, attacked the men; and though Christmas and New
Year were celebrated, and 1873 was saluted by a display of fireworks,
the precarious condition of the crews was by no means ameliorated.

However, lamp-light was dispensed with on the 6th of February, and on
the 13th of March the sun was seen again. In January the cold had been
"inconsiderable," and the bay had been cleared of ice, but on the 20th
of February the cold was very great. April was occupied in preparations
for Nordenski'old's expedition across North-East Land, and on the 24th
of April he and Palander started with three sleighs. After some delay,
in consequence of accident, Palander returned, and Nordenskiold
proceeded to Shoal Point, the north-west extremity of North-East Land,
where Palander again joined him on the 5th of May (1873).

The sledge party started on the 6th. It consisted of Nordenskiold,
Palander, and nine men, who intended to proceed to the Seven Islands
which will be found on the map north of Spitzbergen. Each man in turn
was cook for the party; he had to rise early and get breakfast ready.
The march was then proceeded with, resting occasionally at certain
intervals during the ten hours allotted to the daily journey. Sailing
over the ice and snow on the sledges, good