subject, and he
seized the occasion of the first Sabbath morning they spent in the Bay
of Mercy, when the crew were assembled on the quarterdeck, to speak to
them.

It was an exceedingly bright day. Captain Guy stood up, and, in an
earnest, firm tone, said:--

"My lads, I consider it my duty to say a few plain words to you in
reference to our present situation and prospects. I feel that the
responsibility of having brought you here rests very much upon myself,
and I deem it my solemn duty, in more than the ordinary sense, to do all
I can to get you out of the ice again. You know as well as I do that
this is impossible at the present time, and that we are compelled to
spend a winter here. Some of you know what that means, but the most of
you know it only by hearsay, and that's much the same as knowing nothing
about it at all. Before the winter is done your energies and endurance
will probably be taxed to the uttermost. I think it right to be candid
with you. The life before you will not be child's-play, but I assure
you that it may be mingled with much that will be pleasant and hearty if
you choose to set about it in the right way. Well, then, to be short
about it. There is no chance whatever of our getting through the winter
in this ship comfortably, or even safely, unless the strictest
discipline is maintained aboard. I know, for I've been in similar
circumstances before, that when cold and hunger, and, it may be,
sickness, press upon us--should it please the Almighty to send these on
us in great severity--you will feel duty to be irksome, and you'll think
it useless, and perhaps be tempted to mutiny. Now I ask you solemnly,
while your minds are clear from all prejudices, each individually to
sign a written code of laws, and a written promise that you will obey
the same, and help me to enforce them even with the punishment of
_death_, if need be. Now, lads, will you agree to that?"

"Agreed, agreed!" cried the men at once, and in a tone of prompt
decision that convinced their leader he had their entire confidence--a
matter of the highest importance in the critical circumstances, in which
they were placed.

"Well, then, I'll read the rules; they are few, but sufficiently
comprehensive.

"First. Prayers shall be read every morning before breakfast, unless
circumstances render it impossible to do so."

The captain laid down the paper, and looked earnestly at the men.

"My lads, I have never felt so s