The slope we were traversing appeared to end in a precipice above this beach.

But our revived spirits were not to be damped by difficulties on the last stage of the journey, and we camped cheerfully for breakfast.

Whilst Worsley and Crean were digging a hole for the lamp and starting the cooker I climbed a ridge above us, cutting steps with the adze, in order to secure an extended view of the country below.

At 6.30 a.m.I thought I heard the sound of a steam-whistle.

I dared not be certain, but I knew that the men at the whaling-station would be called from their beds about that time.