The risk was justified solely by our urgent need of assistance.

The ocean south of Cape Horn in the middle of May is known to be the most tempestuous storm-swept area of water in the world.

The weather then is unsettled, the skies are dull and overcast, and the gales are almost unceasing.
We had to face these conditions in a small and weather-beaten boat, already strained by the work of the months that had passed.

Worsley and Wild realized that the attempt must be made, and they both asked to be allowed to accompany me on the voyage.

I told Wild at once that he would have to stay behind.