I relied upon him to hold the party together while I was away and to make the best of his way to Deception Island with the men in the spring in the event of our failure to bring help.

Worsley I would take with me, for I had a very high opinion of his accuracy and quickness as a navigator, and especially in the snapping and working out of positions in difficult circumstances--an opinion that was only enhanced during the actual journey.

Four other men would be required, and I decided to call for volunteers, although, as a matter of fact, I pretty well knew which of the people I would select.

Crean I proposed to leave on the island as a right-hand man for Wild, but he begged so hard to be allowed to come in the boat that, after consultation with Wild, I promised to take him.

I called the men together, explained my plan, and asked for volunteers.